Firefighters were called to three separate fires in the same location this afternoon.

A tree was set alight in Woodcock Hill, near Tennison Avenue, Borehamwood, shortly after 1pm, and a crew from Borehamwood attended to put the blaze out.

But they were called back to Woodcock Hill twice more due to two more fires being deliberately set - at around 3pm and then again at 4.30pm.

Police have been made aware by what has happened there today and were seen at Woodcock Hill earlier this afternoon.

Borehamwood Times:

Smoke could be seen from the windows of homes that back onto Woodcock Hill. Credit: Geraldine Mapplebeck

Images taken by passers-by showed smoke drifting across the air.

Another image shows the grass burning and in flames.

Borehamwood Times:

Leader of Elstree & Borehamwood Town Council, Pat Strack, has condemned those responsible.

She is unsure who is responsible for setting the fires but believes it may be youths.

She said: "These are mindless and thoughtless people doing this. We are all meant to be at home.

"Our police and fire brigade are being sidetracked from what they are doing by these idiots who should know better.

"I believe youngsters may be responsible and my message to parents is they should know where their children are and keep them inside. Everyone needs to be kept safe.

"For anyone who is out there, keep an eye open for anyone acting suspiciously."