A CRACKDOWN to reduce the number of arson attacks in the south was launched today - just days after firebugs caused a £500,000 blaze at a Hampshire building site.

The Arson Prevention Bureau is teaming up with the Crimestoppers charity and nine fire brigades in the south to encourage people to ring in with information about malicious blazes.

In Hampshire alone there were 1,425 arson attacks reported during 1999.

Recent attacks have included a massive blaze at a pilot "environmentally friendly" housing project, pictured above, next to Mason Moor Primary School in Millbrook, Southampton.

Detectives said the arson attack around 12.30pm on Sunday had destroyed ten half-built homes, leaving developers with a repair bill of up to £500,000.

On average, police and fire chiefs believe around 30 fires are started deliberately in the south every single day.

Nationally, arson attacks result in 100 deaths and more than 3,000 injuries each year.

The statistics have prompted a new campaign designed to encourage people to call the anonymous Crimestoppers line with information leading to the identification and conviction of arsonists.

In many cases, it is thought that work colleagues or members of the arsonist's family have information about the cause of the fire but are unwilling to come forward.

But the Crimestoppers line enables people to pass on details about any crime in complete safety - and they may receive a cash reward.

Now posters publicising the Freephone hotline will be plastered on fire engines across Hampshire, as well as at arson sites. Leaflets will also go to people living near the scene of the malicious blaze.

Today PC Richard Moore, southern Crimestoppers co-ordinator, said: "Unfortunately arson is a common problem in Hampshire and often people are reluctant to come forward with information as the perpetrators are perceived as dangerous people.

"Certainly arson is a very serious criminal offence. We regularly receive reports of stolen cars being torched in the mistaken belief that thieves are destroying the evidence.

"We would encourage anyone with information to ring the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111."