Youths have been starting "numerous" fires across an area of Bolton, police have said. 

Officers say that over the last couple of months, deliberate blazes have been set alight by young people in Smithills. 

Moss Bank Park, Doffcocker Lodge and Captains Clough have been highlighted as three hotspots for the crime. 

Police say that the newest case was as recent as last night, August 9, at 8.30pm in Moss Bank Park. 

The youths are described as "white males" and between the ages of "10 and 13 years old". 

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A spokesperson for GMP's Bolton North Neighbourhood Team said: "Officers from the Bolton North Neighbourhood Team are appealing for information after a number of fires have been deliberately started on numerous occasions in the Smithills area of Bolton over the last couple of months. 

"So far, officers have identified five individuals who are responsible for starting these fires and causing damage to property, however we are still looking to identify four more individuals who we suspect to be involved in these incidents.

"Police are appealing for information to help identify the remaining individuals involved. Do you know where your children are during the summer holidays?

"Do you know what they are doing and who they are with? Do they smell of fire, burning plastic or accelerants? Are they carrying lighters which they cannot account for?" 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Bolton North on email at: boltonnorth@gmp.police.uk or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.