Four 'serious fires' have been been reported as started deliberately in Swadlincote Woodlands this week.

And both the fire service and Swadlincote Police have issued warnings that they are looking for the culprits.

Swadlincote Fire Station says they need to be caught 'before they burn the woodland to the ground'.

Both sets of emergency services are in no doubt that the incidents have been caused by arsonists - with the fires all happening between 7-11pm.

Police are stepping up patrols in the area and cameras have been installed.

Swadlincote Fire Station tweeted more details and said: "Crews from Swadlincote fire station have attended four serious fires in Swadlincote Woodlands off Frank Bodicote way this week.

"All were between 1900 and 2300.

"Just think about this for a second.

"Every time crews are called to arson incidents such as this, there could be a serious house fire or Road Traffic Collision that the crews should be attending whilst they are tied up with mindless fire setting.

"It could be your family that needs us.

"We are collaborating with the police Safer Neighbourhood Team and have been assured that patrols will be stepped up on the Woodlands and covert security cameras have been fitted.

"Let's hope we catch the culprit before they burn the whole woodland to the ground."

The Safer Neighbourhood Team published details of their visit to the Woodlands today (Friday).

Their social media post reads: "SNT officers have today attended The Woodlands in Swadlincote along with officers from Derbyshire Fire Service.

"A number of fires have been reported here over the past week.

"The National Forest has not prepared these habitats for you to destroy.

"Anyone identified as being involved in these fires will be prosecuted."