POLICE are investigating after arsonists torched a pile of rubbish which led to a nearby container setting on fire.

The incident happened at about 7.35pm in Beasley Place, Chesterton, on Monday.

Firefighters from Newcastle attended the incident.

Assistant area commander for Newcastle, Rob Barber, said: "Rubbish had been set alight up against a unit which was full of insulation materials and plastic bags.

"The fire caused the inside walls to heat up, and the insulation and plastic to catch fire.

"On arrival crews saw smoke bellowing from the portable building and had to force it open."