FIREFIGHTERS have condemned nuisance call outs after two rubbish fires were started in one day.

On Sunday October 23, the fire brigade was called out at 2.28pm to what they believed was a residential fire on Rawlinson Street, Barrow.

However, the call out was sparked by a group of youths setting fire to some rubbish behind the Queens Arms.

Because of the perceived risk to the building, two engines were sent out, diverting them away from other genuine emergencies.

Later the same day at 4.43pm, one fire engine responded to reports of a blaze on Stephen Street.

An office chair behind the Barrow branch of Nat West had been set on fire, and a group of young people were seen climbing on the building.

The police were called to the scene, however when they arrived the youths had left the area.

Inspector Mike O’Hagan from Barrow Police said: "Climbing buildings or starting fires are obviously incredibly dangerous activities; they could result in serious injuries to both those directly involved and innocent bystanders.

"I would urge anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously to report it to the police so that we can investigate."