A CAR was dramatically set alight to promote the launch of two major anti-arson initiatives in Lancashire.

Emergency services and local authorities teamed up for the launch of Wheels on Fire and the Crimestoppers Arson Hotline at the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service training centre, at Euxton.

Wheels on Fire aims to combat the problem of cars being deliberately set alight for insurance fraud, or to destroy evidence of crime.

It is a joint initiative by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire County Council and district authorities.

Information will be shared between the various agencies to expose attempted insurance scams and efforts will be made to remove abandoned cars before they are set alight.

A spokesman for the fire service said the scheme was piloted in West Lancashire, where it had had a 'significant effect' in reducing levels of auto arson.

The second initiative, the Crimestoppers Arson Hotline, is an extension of the existing Crimestopppers Hotline, which is advertised at scenes of crimes and accidents.

Where arson is suspected, posters will be displayed asking members of the public to call the free, confidential hotline if they have any information about the fire.

The number - 0800 555 111 - will also be featured in a bus advertising campaign.

The leader of Lancashire County Council, County Councillor John West, said: "Lancashire County Council is keen to be involved in initiatives like these which are aimed at preventing and detecting arson.

"By working in partnership with the police and fire authorities we can help to make Lancashire a safer place."

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