Mum makes plea for action as yobs start series of fires

A MUM is calling for action after a third fire in less than a fortnight broke out just yards from her family home.

Humera Ahmed, 31, claims arsonists are continuing to target the same area on a disused railway track close to Brunswick Street, Heckmondwike.

The mum-of-two says at least three fires have been started since April 28, with the most recent breaking out on Saturday.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has been called to deal with the fires on numerous occasions.

Humera, who lives on Brunswick Street with her husband, Umair Dildar, and her two young children, claims the fires are being started by a number of youths who are allegedly carrying items to the same spot under a bridge on the street before setting them alight.

Back-to-back incidents on April 28 and 29 led to the Batley and Spen Neighbourhood Policing Team taking to Facebook to implore parents to educate their children on the dangers of starting fires.

The post read: “For the second night running our officers have attended reports of fires being set by youths in the Heckmondwike area.

“Please speak to your children and educate them of the dangers, not only to themselves, but also the general public and wildlife.

“If your child is coming home smelling of smoke, then ask them why!

“Officers have images of those involved and responsible and will be making enquiries to identify them.”

But, despite the police’s warning, a fire broke out in the same spot on Saturday.

Humera told The Examiner: “These fires could come towards our houses, or go in the other direction, but either way it could cause a lot of damage.

“Two have been big fires and there is a lot of greenery down there [on the old railway line]. If the weather had been dry then the fires could easily have spread.”

Humera added she is also concerned for the safety of her two young children.

“We have kids and they like to play out,” she said. “When the weather is nice we play outside. But kids explore everything and if a fire was started it could be really dangerous. “Some action has to be taken.”

The Examiner has approached West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Kirklees Council for comment.

These fires could come towards our houses and cause a lot of damage