ANDOVER police are hunting an arsonist who has set ablaze two wooden sheds in a fortnight.

Nobody was injured in the attacks, but police fear people could be in danger if a shed is set alight near to other buildings. Pc Ted Reynolds said in the first incident an isolated shed used to store fishing tackle in Watery Lane, Upper Clatford, was burned to the ground. It is not known if anything was stolen or destroyed.

In the second incident a lawnmower was stolen from a shed in the gardens of a home near the church in Upper Clatford before it, too, was destroyed by fire. Police are warning owners to check their sheds regularly and ensure they are secure.

"In each case the fire service was not called out because the flames were out before anyone realised what had happened," said Pc Reynolds.

Andover fire chief Robin Furniss said it is always worth calling the brigade so fire officers can help investigate the incident. Anyone with information can contact Andover police on 01256 405131.