Four teenagers arrested over suspected field arson

Four teenagers have been arrested after a suspected arson attack on a farmer's field that caused an estimated £30,000 of damage to crops, police said.

Emergency services were called to a field off Askham Lane in Acomb, near York, shortly after 15:30 BST on Sunday following reports of a fire.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service brought the blaze under control and nearby roads, which had been closed because of heavy smoke, were later reopened.

Two boys and two girls, all aged 14, were arrested on Friday. Two girls aged 15 and 17 who were previously arrested are no longer suspected in this fire but remain under investigation over a separate fire reported that evening, police said.

Officers believe the fire was started using a lighter before rapidly spreading across the field.

Local farm contractor Cameron Bartram, 19, helped to create a fire break in the field, alongside his friend Jay Loft.

Bartram said the fire was "spreading really quick" when he arrived in his tractor, with the wind fanning the flames.

"I was just glad I was nearby and could get there to help a neighbouring farmer.

"If it happened to us I'd like to think that a neighbouring farmer would be here to help us.

"It was horrible really. And for the farmer as well, just a massive loss.

"It's just that dry at the minute, everything can catch alight like no problem at all."

Sgt Ben Ambler of York Outer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "I want to recognise Jay and Cameron, who acted quickly and courageously before the arrival of the fire service by creating a firebreak that helped prevent the fire from spreading further.

"Their actions undoubtedly assisted in limiting the damage caused, and it is pleasing to see them receiving the recognition they deserve for their efforts."

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