Hunt for arsonists after cars torched

Police have launched an investigation after the string of arson attacks in the town during the past month.

The first incident happened in Aire Walk at around 10.03pm on March 3.

This was followed by a fire on March 26 on Fishergate at around 8.30pm and one on Aire Street on March 28 between midnight and 12.30am.

The latest attack took place on Aire Street on April 9 between 5am and 6am.

Elderly couple James and Dorothy Marran were woken after a neighbour spotted their car was on fire.

Mr Marran, 72, said the car, which is now burnt out, was “perfect” for his wife, 73, who has arthritis and struggles to walk.

He said: “We need a car like that because it is easy for my wife to get in and out of and we can fit her shopping buggy in the boot. We aren’t going to be able to replace it and we will struggle to get about.”

He added: “This incident has been really upsetting and it’s sad but we are scared of living here now and want to move.”

Sergeant Sarah Degnan of the Pontefract and Knottingley Neighbourhood Police Team said: “These are four separate incidents and all have been under investigation.

“We have increased patrols in the area to help reassure residents and to try and prevent further offences but we need anyone with any information about these incidents to come forward to police by calling 101.”