A fire at a farm treated as suspected arson has destroyed thirty acres of crops and a tractor.
Newham Hall Farm, near Coulby Newham, North Yorkshire, was targeted on Sunday (16 July) causing thousands in damage.
Cleveland Police believe it is a group of youths who are responsible.
The fire was dealt with after 2 hours, leaving wheat fields burnt and smoking.
Detective Constable Joanne Williams told The Northern Echo: “This fire has had a devastating impact on the owners of the farm and has caused significant damage, leaving crops and a tractor completely ruined.
“Luckily no one was injured but this fire could have easily escalated, resulting in someone being severely injured or even killed.
“We believe that a group of youths are responsible for the fire and therefore we would appeal to parents to ensure that they know where their children were when the incident happened.
“Arson will not be tolerated and immediate action will be taken against anyone involved in this incident.”
This week, the National Farmers' Union said criminals are treating rural businesses and farmers as 'criminal tourism' in its new report outlining the true human cost of rural crime.
Anyone who may have witnessed what happened or anyone with information regarding those responsible is asked to contact DC Joanne Williams on the non-emergency number 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111
