ARSONISTS caused thousands of pounds in damage to farm buildings near York after they struck twice in one night.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service was first called to a fire at a Dutch barn in the village of Hessay, shortly after 10.45pm on Sunday. Police said 200 bales of straw were destroyed along with the barn itself.

The second incident happened at 11.40pm in nearby Long Marston, where arsonists set fire to a hay clamp.

The farmer was able to extinguish the flames before emergency services arrived.

Police have now asked for help from the public to catch the culprit and are keen to speak to the driver of a silver vehicle, possibly a Land Rover, which was seen near both incidents.

Detective Constable Sarah Bullock, of York CID, said: “I am appealing to the driver of the silver vehicle to contact me as I believe they have vital information that can help with this inquiry.

“I urge them, or anyone else who knows anything about these fires, to contact me as soon as possible.”

DC Bullock can be phoned at York CID on 0845 60 60 24 7, quoting reference number 12100216999. Or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.