POLICE are investigating after arsonists targeted a scrap yard causing £4,000 worth of damage.

A pile of tyres and a number of scrap vehicles were set alight at King Street Breakers, in King Street, Fenton, in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The garage was also damaged in the blaze.

Firefighters from Longton, Burslem and Hanley were called out at 12.49am.

Firefighters fought two separate fires, with 30 tonnes of tyres and five scrap vehicles alight.

Relief crews were drafted in overnight to tackle the blaze.

Station manager David Agu said: "A pile of tyres stacked against the side of the building and a quantity of scrap vehicles nearby were set on fire within moments of one another. We are satisfied there were two separate ignitions, both deliberate."

He added: "Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service would urge all business owners and traders to make sure items and stock are kept locked away in a container, or, ideally, removed from the premises altogether overnight."

Firefighters remained at the scene until 8.20am. Police are now appealing for witnesses.

A police spokesman said: "An investigation has been launched by Stoke-on-Trent CID. This is ongoing and we will continue to liaise with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue."

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Jeff Taylor at Stoke-on-Trent CID, on 0300 123 4455.