Thursday, 22 November 2007, 19:59 GMT
Reward offered over factory arson

The owner of a plastics recycling plant which was set alight by arsonists is offering a £10,000 reward to catch the culprits.

Fire crews were called to Preston Plastics in Lancaster Road, Out Rawcliffe, Lancashire, on Monday.

Nearby houses were evacuated and the fire caused disruption to electricity services and road closures.

Edgar Wallace is offering the reward for information which leads to arrest and conviction of those involved.

Mr Wallace said: "I have worked hard to build up this business for 21 years and overnight it has been ruined.

"Most importantly I have children who were sleeping in the house next door which was gutted by the fire and they could have been killed. I am angry and appalled."

Emergency services were called to the blaze at about 0130 GMT on Monday.

Det Insp Andy Bunn, of Fleetwood CID, said: "Preston Plastics is in a remote area and the fire was started at a very quiet time but if anyone did see anything suspicious then I would urge them to contact Fleetwood Police or Crimestoppers."