POLICE have warned four boys in connection with two arson attacks in Fenland.

Officers issued a final warning to a 12 year-old boy following a house fire in Wisbech in June, while a 13-year-old boy was warned in connection with a fire in a field in Newlands Road, Whittlesey, on August 5.

Two boys, aged 13 and 11, have already been reprimanded over the Whittlesey fire.

The final warnings, which are issued by the police for a second offence or a particularly serious first offence, mean the boys will have to keep out of trouble for at least five years or face being charged and taken to court.

To receive a reprimand or final warning, the offender has to admit the incident and show remorse.

Police and the fire service hope the action will deter other youngsters from committing the crime.

Detective Inspector Lorraine Parker said: “This is the result of a lot of hard work into the fires by police and partner agencies.

“It sends out a warning that anyone starting fires deliberately will be caught and dealt with by police.”

Martin Boome, Arson Investigation Unit Officer for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, added: “Over the past five years arson levels across Cambridgeshire have decreased significantly. This has come about due to all agencies involved working together and sharing information and resources.”

Anyone with any information about arson should call police on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.