POLICE were today investigating a suspected arson attack at a garage that destroyed three vehicles and left two more badly damaged.

Flames broke out last night at Strensall Coachworks, leaving a Vauxhall Cavalier and Nova and Astra vans gutted.

Eight firefighters were called to the incident, believed to have started in one of the vehicles before spreading to two others parked in the New Lane yard. A Toyota Hilux and a Ford Sierra were also damaged.

York crews attended at 7pm, but the fire - which may have already been raging for hours - had almost burnt itself out.

Station Officer Phil Whild, of York Fire Station, said: "Three cars were completely destroyed and two were badly damaged. The fire was nearly out when we arrived."

Mr Whild added: " luckily the fire did not spread to the mechanic's compound and other buildings."

Police are treating the incident as suspicious. Officers launched an investigation into the blaze last night.

Updated: 11:20 Monday, October 27, 2003