THERE is a growing problem of drunken anti-social youths committing arson and more police are needed on the streets at night to stop it, according to a Wyre Forest district councillor.

Liberal Leader, Fran Oborski, said the problem had escalated after the destruction of Stourport Sports Club last year.

She added it had been followed by serious arson attacks at St Ambrose Church Social Club and Kidderminster Victoria Cricket Club in Chester Road North, and, most recently, an ironmongers in the town centre had been damaged.

Mrs Oborski explained that, in many cases, wheelie bins were set on fire after being left too close to buildings.

She said: “Arson does appear to be a growing trend in the district. I think we need more police on the ground at night in some areas. A highly visible police presence puts people like this off.

“If they know a policeman is likely to be around the corner it will deter stupid behaviour.”

She added: “There are some fairly young people out there whose anti-social behaviour increases with every alcoholic beverage they drink.”

John Beard, owner of John Beard Tools and Ironmongery, said he was back in business despite the arson attack on his store last week.

He added: “It seems to be a real problem. It is a terrible situation.

“The police can’t be everywhere but my store might not have been damaged if there were police patrolling.”

Alec Mackie, spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said that in Wyre Forest there had been 326 instances of arson from April, 2007 to March 31, 2008.

He added that although that was fewer than last year it amounted to an case of arson almost every day of the year.

Mr Mackie warned that all businesses and properties needed to keep skips and wheelie bins secure and away from their premises.

Following the attack at the ironmongers, police revealed there had been three offences of arson recorded in Kidderminster town centre since the beginning of April this year.

Insp Paul Crowley, of Kidderminster police, said: “Patrols in the town centre have been increased and the local policing tasking team, a group of officers dedicated to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour in problem areas, is also involved.

“Some people might regard starting fires as fun.

“However, arson can have extremely serious consequences, in terms of damaging property and endangering life, and anyone convicted faces a maximum life sentence.

“We are examining CCTV in an attempt to identify offenders and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact us on 08457 444888 or ring Crimestoppers.”