A WINSFORD headteacher has spoken of his anger and disappointment following an arson attack at his school which caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Fire crews were called to New Images youth centre, on Nixon Drive, at 5.17pm on Sunday after a window was broken in one of the art rooms and a fire deliberately started.

The art room is used by pupils at Verdin High School and headteacher Neil Dyment said the blaze will have a big effect on the children.

He said: "We have got to assess the situation as far as repairs are concerned, which could cost between £8,000 and £10,000.

"I'm annoyed, disappointed and upset because we have spent a lot of money on the facility.

"The pupils' work can be retrieved but I'm upset and angry for them.

"The fire was contained in a small area but there was a considerable amount of soot in the building.

"It is surprising the amount of damage smoke can do.

"We will try to get the place up and running again as quickly as possible."

Winsford town councillor Peter Gannon is appalled by the arson attack and is calling on the community to supply police with information.

He said: "People could die through this. It is a small proportion of idiots who are causing the problem.

"They must be caught and when they are I will be pushing for compensation for the damage from the youth's parents through the council and the courts.

"I would urge anyone with information to contact the police because we have got to start standing up against this."

Mike Kennedy, chairman of Grange Residents' Association, has also called for action.

He said: "I urge anyone with names to come forward with them.

"Somebody out there must know who is responsible for it."

Anyone with information on the fire should call the police on 01606 48000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.