ARSON experts say a horrifying and twisted prank in which older youths tried to set two young children on fire after wrapping them in wallpaper could be a copycat incident.

The victims, a brother and sister aged six and four, were grabbed by three teenagers in Bellhouse Way, Foxwood, who trapped them in the paper and tried to set it alight.

But a disposable lighter failed to make the heavyweight paper burn and the terrified youngsters escaped and ran to their nearby home unhurt.

Mick Brighton, arson reduction co-ordinator for North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue, said the "appalling" attack echoed the tragic death of a 15-year-old boy in Gateshead earlier this week.

Michael Temperley died of severe burns he suffered after being left burning in a skip at the back of a furniture retail store at the Team Valley Retail Park.

Mr Brighton said "fire play" was a growing phenomenon among youngsters as they experimented with fire, but few of them realised the potentially serious consequences of their actions.

"I cannot say if this is a copycat crime for certain, but it is terror and it is appalling. This could leave a child scarred for life.

"Maybe in this case it is a child's play fire fascination and perhaps they have heard the story on the news.

"This is a growing phenomenon, and the fire brigade is tackling the root cause by teaching children of the dangers of fire."

A spokesperson for York Police said the attack was a "frightening" attack, but that the children had managed to escape and run home at about 6pm on Monday night. Officers are continuing their investigation and have spoken to the victim's mother. She declined to comment when approached by the Evening Press today.

Mr Brighton said: "I would urge the parents of the children involved in this incident to contact the fire brigade for advice if they feel they have fire play issues."

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue operate an advice line which offers information on fire setting behaviour. They can be contacted by telephoning 0800 074 0064.

Updated: 12:24 Thursday, July 17, 2003