Devastation after suspected revenge arson attack at Kettering allotments

A Kettering allotment holder's years of hard work went up in flames last night (Tuesday) in a suspected revenge arson attack.

The shocked woman, who didn't want to be named, was left devastated by the blaze at the South End Allotments in Whiteford Drive on the Highfield estate.

Firefighters were called just before 7.15pm after reports two allotment sheds were on fire and investigators believe it was started deliberately.

Claire Humphrey, chairman of Kettering South End Allotments, said it's believed a group of local children who have been 'causing a nuisance' may be involved.

She said the children had gained entry to the allotments, which are locked up, and had been told to leave by the victim of the arson attack.

Her shed was later set alight and Claire said they found a can of petrol in a nearby alleyway this morning.

She said: "They torched her shed and it's just coming across as a revenge thing.

"She's had the plot for 13 or 14 years now and it's all she has.

"It's horrific. She's lost virtually everything she had there and lots of things of sentimental value.

"Just seeing the sheer devastation of what is left is horrible. Going there was solace for her."

A statement from Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “An appliance from Kettering Fire Station was called to attend an incident in Whiteford Drive, Kettering, at 7.14pm (February 23) where they found two allotment sheds on fire.

“Fire crews were on site for approximately 30 minutes and used breathing apparatus, hose reel and a thermal imaging camera whilst at the location.

“The fire is suspected to have been started deliberately and police officers are therefore investigating.

"Contact is being made with the shed owners to progress enquiries.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should contact police on 101.