Warning to be vigilant after series of 'serious and malicious' arson attacks in Luton

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) have attended a number of incidents of fire at The Academy in Holly Street, Luton over the past two weeks, the latest on Monday - read the full story here.

Police and the fire service are seriously concerned by the malicious nature of the incidents.

And in a statement they have warned residents to stay vigilant.

"These are serious incidents so we ask that people who live in these premises are vigilant," BFRS said in a statement to Luton Today.

"Each of these incidents are believed to have been malicious arson attempts within the corridors and staircases of the five storey residential building. Each of these attempts have been dealt with swiftly by the Fire Service and the fire precautions within the premises have assisted in minimising the potential spread of fire and smoke."

BFRS are investigating the incidents and assisting Bedfordshire Police with their enquires.

The emergency services are working with the managing agents for the premises, in order to minimise these occurrences and ensure that the premises active and passive fire precautions are maintained.

They added: "We ask that residents and visitors to premises of this type remain vigilant. They should ensure that all corridors and staircases of high rise residential buildings are kept as sterile areas and free of combustible materials. Any measures provided within these premises to minimise the chances of a fire occurring and/or control the spread of fire should not be inappropriately used or tampered with.

"If you see anything suspicious or have any information in relation to these incidents please report online via www.bedfordshire.police/report or call 101, quoting reference 40/59678/20.

"Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."