Four fires in Bexhill in the space of 23 minutes

All the incidents were reported in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday, October 20) between 12.59am and 1.22am.

In the first incident, crews were called to bin fire in Ninfield Road, Bexhill.

At 1.03am, firefighters attended a van fire in Glovers Lane, Bexhill. They used breathing apparatus and one hose reel jet to extinguish the flames.

Nine minutes later, at 1.12am, a crew was sent to tackle a small bush fire in the open in Wrestwood Road, Bexhill. They used one hose reel jet to prevent the fire spreading.

Finally, at 1.22am two fire engines were sent to St James Avenue to tackle a fire at a bin store. Crews used hose reel jet to extinguish the flames.

The fire service is treating the four incidents as unrelated to a spate of motorcycle fires in St Leonards. A 26-year-old man from Bexhill, has been arrested on suspicion of arson, police said. He has been released on conditional bail until 15 November, pending further enquiries.

Station Manager Kate Sands said: “A fire investigation into all these incidents has been carried out for both the Hastings and Bexhill incidents and we are currently working closely with Sussex Police.

“Crews in Hastings and Bexhill have completed targeted ‘quick strikes’ which involves co-ordinated community engagement with local residents in a bid to increase fire safety awareness. Home Safety Visits were carried out in the affected areas to provide reassurance for residents in the vicinity.

“We would like to remind the public that arson is a crime and that if you see anything, to report it immediately to Sussex Police.”