FIREFIGHTERS were expected to continue tackling a straw fire in a field between Offord D Arcy and Graveley today (Wednesday) following an arson attack at the weekend. Seven hundred tonnes of straw was deliberately set on fire on Sunday evening. A total of

FIREFIGHTERS were expected to continue tackling a straw fire in a field between Offord D'Arcy and Graveley today (Wednesday) following an arson attack at the weekend.

Seven hundred tonnes of straw was deliberately set on fire on Sunday evening.

A total of three fire crews, two from Huntingdon and a water carrier from St Neots, arrived on the scene at 10.40pm to find the stack well alight.

The hay was expected to remain burning for several days and a crew from Huntingdon was said to be monitoring the stack until it was fully extinguished.

Detective Constable Alastair Watson said: "Those responsible have deliberately started this fire and have put their own lives, and potentially those of others at risk.

"This type of crime has a dramatic effect on the rural community as it affects supply."

A spokesman for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Stack fires have the potential to be very dangerous, they can spread easily, ruining property, as well as risking lives.

"While our firefighters are out dealing with these deliberate fires it means that it could take them longer to attend other incidents. We are urging the public to stay vigilant and to report suspicious activity in and around field areas. It is important to inform the police if you see any suspicious behaviour."

In October, an arson attack in Warboys saw more than 100,000 bales of straw set on fire, leaving the farmer thousands of pounds out of pocket.

The incident took place in Wilson's Orchard on Fenside Road on October 28 between 1am and 3.15am.

INFORMATION: Anyone with information is asked to contact Huntingdon police station on 0845 4564564 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.