OLD social services buildings in Blackburn could became a target for thieves and arsonists, firefighters fear.

Derelict former borough council offices, off Montague Street, were hit early today by suspected thieves.

Firefighters were alerted to an electrical sub station just before 7am but the blaze was contained within the building used dry powder extinguishers.

A Blackburn fire station spokesman said that it was believed that the sub station had been hit by thieves trying to obtain copper cabling to sell on.

Each week a number of old mill properties and derelict factories are targeted in this way and firefighters fear the old social service offices could become another popular target.

"People need to be aware that if they see any suspicious behaviour around empty buildings then they should contact the police," he added.