Hospital in fire drama as trees burn

Part of Kidderminster hospital had to be evacuated after the latest in a string of arson attacks on trees around Kidderminster.

The 'phantom tree burners' have started 30 fires, mainly involving conifers.

Some of the fires have put lives at risk as they have been close to houses.

Trees in the Brooke Road area were set on fire last night which led to thick smoke building up around the nearby hospital site at around 7.15pm.

Firefighters were directed to the hospital rather than the source of the fire due to the extensive smoke which activated alarms. Around six patients were evacuated from the treatment centre for around 15 minutes.

There were four fires involving conifer trees the night before in Chester Road North, Masefield Gardens, Park Lane and Franchise Street.

Police revealed that since mid-July around 30 fires have been reported in Kidderminster, mainly involving conifer trees. Residents have dubbed the arsonists the 'phantom tree burners of Kidderminster'.

Anyone with information should contact Kidderminster Police on 08457 444888.