A SUSPECTED arson attack almost led to residents being evacuated from their homes after a blaze at a North Yorkshire industrial estate came dangerously close to nearby houses.
The blaze at McKechnie Plastics on the Westgate Carr Industrial estate, in Pickering, spread from a yard, through nearby grass fields to garden hedgerows.
Police officers were called in by the fire service in case they were required to evacuate residents from the nearby housing estate.
Six fire crews were called in to deal with the blaze.
The fire, which was discovered about 12.25pm yesterday, is believed to have been started deliberately. It was brought under control by firefighters by 1.30pm.
It began in the yard of the plastics firm, affecting 150 large plastic pallets, 70 plastic containers and 50 metal containers. It then spread to grass before catching the hedgerows.
Police said one person was currently assisting officers with their inquiries.
Anyone with information is asked to phone investigating officer PC Gary Riddler on 01609 783131.
Updated: 11:01 Tuesday, April 22, 2003
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