Police are hunting arsonists who set fire to thatched roofs in Huntingdonshire villages in the early hours of this morning.

Five properties were targeted in a series of arson attacks, which started in Offord Cluny at 12.37am followed by four more in Brampton.

No one was hurt and damage was limited but police say it was fortunate they were not far more serious.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue area commander Rick Hylton warned anyone living in a thatched house to be vigilant. He said: “This morning we had five fires caused deliberately that had the potential to both seriously damage property and put lives of Cambridgeshire residents at risk.

“We are working closely with police, however, we’re urging residents, and especially those with thatched properties, to be vigilant to any suspicious activity and ensure you have a working smoke alarm.

“If you see anything suspicious, please ensure you call the police on 101 and if you see a crime taking place, call 999.”

The first 999-call came in at 12.37 from New Road, Offord Cluny. Firefighters from Huntingdon, St Neots, Cambridge, Kimbolton and Yaxley were sent and found smoke coming from the roof. The fire was out by 2am.

Meanwhile, another call came in at 1.10am from West End Road, Brampton and firefighters from Sawtry were sent, putting out the blaze by 2.08am.

At 1.41am, another report was received of a thatched roof of a cottage on fire in High Street, Brampton, opposite the fish and chip bar. Crews from Yaxley, Kimbolton and Stanground put it out by 2.29am. About 10 per cent of the roof was damaged.

Another roof fire was discovered at an address in The Green, Brampton. Firefighters from Cambridge extinguish it by 2.23am.

Detective Sergeant Iain Moor said: “Luckily these fires were caught early and were extinguished without causing major damage but it goes without saying they could have been a lot more serious.

“I would urge anyone with any information about who is responsible to contact police.”

INFORMATION: Anyone who can help police with inquiries should contact Det Sgt Moor on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.