ARSONISTS have targeted recycling bins in Bolton town centre.

Firefighters were called to Newport Street at 3.30am yesterday after they were contacted by a skateboarder who had spotted a fierce blaze inside the steel container housing the bins.

The bins contained paper, cans and plastic items.

A spokesman for Bolton Central Fire Station, said: “It completely destroyed the bins and everything in them and there was just the steel structure remaining.

“There were loads of youths around, despite the time, but we don’t know who started the blaze.”

A council spokesman said: “The bins will be replaced as soon as possible and in the meantime temporary bins will be located in Newport Street. The bins will cost under £100 to replace.”

The blaze came after teenage arsonists set fire to a mound of rubbish in Farnworth Market on Tuesday night.

Firefighters have urged parents to monitor their children’s movement in a bid to stop incidents of arson.

The fire service, police and Bolton Council are working together to try and clamp down on anti-social behaviour, especially during the summer months.

The police have also launched a Safe 4 Summer operation, to try and reduce yob behaviour and get young people involved in various activities.

And there are extra police patrols in the area.

Anyone who witnesses a fire-related incident or has information, should call the police on 0161 856 5740 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.