A series of random arson attacks have struck fear into the residents in Great Harwood.
Five vehicles were destroyed in just two hours in the early hours of Tuesday morning, leaving residents and business owners fearing for their properties.
Three lorries worth more than £45,000 and two cars were targeted around Waverledge Business Park in what police believe are unrelated attacks.
Workers in the area said their livelihoods have been dealt a huge blow. And people living nearby are worried about the motiveless nature of the arsons.
Dale Mcvarish has owned B&M Builders Merchants and Skip Hire on Waverledge Business Park for more than 20 years. Two of the three lorries in his main fleet were destroyed.
He said: "I’ve not known anything like it. It is just mindless vandalism and sickening when all you are trying to do is make an honest living. Financially we will never get them back – which is a killer for us. That kind of financial pressure is the last thing we need."
Police and firefighters launched an investigation after residents reported a Vectra Estate car alight at 2.20am. Flames were then spotted coming from the two lorries. A lorry owned by Grade A Carpets was also seen on fire, which had been parked securely inside Waverledge Business Park.
Reports then came through that a BMW’s roof had been torched on St Huberts Road.
Resident Barbara Shears, 63, of Rushton Street, said: "This awful behaviour is putting people’s lives at risk and affecting their business and livelihoods."
A spokesman for Hyndburn Fire Station said the fires were started between 1am and 3am.
Police have arrested a 31-year-old man, from Accrington, on suspicion of arson. He has been released on bail pending further enquiries
