Bragging arsonists are filming themselves setting fires and causing explosions around the borough and posting the videos online.

Videos have been uploaded to YouTube showing explosions and fires at derelict venues, including the former Huncoat Power Station and Arden Hall, in Accrington.

Police are investigating the incidents which are believed to have taken place between November 2 and November 5.

John Taylor, of Lancashire Fire and Rescue, condemned the ‘potentially lethal’ fire setting.

He said: “These people are promoting potentially lethal behaviour and we deplore that.

“They are glamorising potentially killer behaviour that could take their lives, the lives of others and put fire crews at risk.”

In one video titled ‘Huncoat power station blowin s*** up’ men can be seen placing 11 bottles of aerosol, including shaving foam and deodorant, onto a concrete plinth before three large explosions.

In another called ‘Starting the blaze at Huncoat fire station’ a man lights a line of accelerant which explodes into fire as two people run away laughing.

Another, called ‘12g Co2 explosion Accy’ with the tagline ‘Boom’, shows a large explosion inside a derelict building.

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones is concerned the incidents reflect a ‘disturbing’ trend for publishing criminal activity online.

He said: “There is a tendency for people to seek some sort of gratification and approval for their behaviour.

“These individuals who seek cheap thrills have a bizarre view of what constitutes enjoyment and are a danger to themselves and others.”

Huncoat Power Station, owned by Omega Atlantic, closed in 1984 and has been a hot-spot for graffiti and vandalism ever since.

Ward councillor Dave Parkins called for owners to secure the ‘dangerous’ site from public access.

He said: “There are large holes in the fencing so it is easy for people to get through, the site is full of asbestos and there are huge holes in the ground – it’s very dangerous.

“These criminals need to be taken to task by the police as they could be injured or killed. They are morons with no common sense.”

Katie Dent, of Omega Atlantic, said the site will be secure immediately.

She added: “Obviously we condemn any fire starting. We have already taken steps to begin securing the site and we will deal with it straight away and carry out the work immediately.”