KIDDERMINSTER police officers and firefighters have issued a safety warning after receiving numerous reports of trespassers and fires being lit inside derelict premises. 

Between Sunday, July 24, and Sunday, August 3, West Mercia Police and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service have received a number of reports of fires being lit inside the former Glades Leisure Centre, in Bromsgrove Street, and Sion Hill School, in Sion Hill.

Both sites are currently dangerous and have been described as "extremely dangerous".

Inspector Gareth Lougher, from West Mercia Police, said: "We are working closely with the Wyre Forest District Council and property owners to prevent access by trespassers. 

"The structural safety of these buildings cannot be guaranteed and those who are seemingly intent on gaining access to these sites are placing their lives at risk by doing so.

"From a police perspective, I want to be clear that we will prosecute anyone who commits any criminal offence in relation to the buildings and have enquiries ongoing to identify those who have entered the building.

"Our message is clear, please keep out for your own safety."

Robert Allen, station commander at Kidderminster fire station, said: "Reducing arson is always high on our priority list and we regularly work closely with the police, schools and Wyre Forest District Council to help reduce the number of fires being started deliberately.

"Arson is an extremely serious crime which can have very tragic consequences.

"Everyone can make a contribution to reducing arson.

"By taking simple steps such as, removing rubbish, reporting abandoned vehicles, fly-tipping or suspicious behaviour and not letting your children carry matches or lighters, a big reduction can be made on incidents of arson."

Officers are also urging parents to reiterate safety messages to their children, reminding them of the dangers of trespassing and playing on derelict sites.

Anyone who has seen people entering the buildings is asked to call West Mercia Police on 101 quoting incident reference number 537S of August 14. 

Mercia Police on 101 quoting incident number 537s of Sunday 14 August. 

Alternatively you can contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website, crimestoppers-uk.org.