Arsonists attempt to torch Wigan farm stables

The incident occurred just after 10.30pm on Sunday night at Tree Tops, a farm on Crankwood Road in Abram.

Firefighters from Atherton arrived at the scene to find a small fire in a block of stables. Watch manager Andy Leyland, said that the fire would have been “much worse” but the residents at the property had heard movement and noises, causing them to call the emergency services promptly.

“This fire was set deliberately,” he said. “Petrol was used to try and set fire to the block of stables that was attached to the farm.

“Luckily there were no horses in there. The incident will now be investigated by us and the police.

“We don’t know who the offender could be. Luckily the owners heard the nose and alerted us so by the time we arrived, the flames weren’t well developed.”

Fire crews used a hose reel to put out the flames and conducted a home safety check on the property, which showed that the residence was well equipped to notify any occupants of a fire.

“No one was hurt,” added watch manager Leyland. “But the residents were shook up. Hopefully the investigation will bring to light what has happened.”

There were no witnesses to the incident and no CCTV footage on that part of the farm to capture who had set the fire, however a petrol can was found at the scene and has been taken for further examination. The property is little over a mile from Platt Bridge, which has been highlighted by firefighters as a black spot for arsons.

Over the past few months crews have been called to multiple incidents of fires being deliberately set around the area. Pleas have been made by crews for people to keep materials such as wheelie bins or garden waste locked away to prevent future attacks. Anyone with information should contact police on 101.