arsonists have set light to caravans on a Canvey site two nights running.

Police suspect local youngsters are behind the fires at Thorney Bay Village caravan park on Canvey on Sunday and Monday nights.

Canvey firefighter Stuart Logan said the first fire had badly damaged the bedroom of a small caravan in a rear corner of the park, off Thorney Bay Road. The second fire caused extensive damage to a second caravan in the same row.

He said: “The second van was larger than the first one, and the fire was a lot bigger. It’s been completely destroyed.

“It was not inhabited and they were both in a back corner. Obviously, there’s someone going around.”

Firefighters put out the first fire shortly after 8pm on Sunday. The second was reported just after 9pm on Monday.

Firefighters remained at the scene of Monday’s fire for more than an hour to make sure it was properly out and to await fire investigators.

The owners of the two caravans have not yet been named. A police spokesman said the force was looking into the possibility the fires could be linked and appealed for information about the incidents.

He added: “It is thought local youngsters are behind the blazes.

“Officers are continuing to liaise with their counterparts from Essex Fire and Rescue Service.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Canvey police on 101, or 0300 3334444.