MANAGERS of a landfill company have vowed to step up security on a site where firebugs sparked three blazes in the space of a week.

Two more suspected arsonists attacks on Lyme and Wood Pit site in Haydock came six days after tyres that seal a liner at the site were set on fire. The three attacks, the cost of which will run into tens of thousands of pounds, have sparked health fears among Haydock and Newton-le-Willows residents.

Councillors, Keith Deakin and Sandra Banawich, from the Newton West ward have handled a flood of calls from worried neighbours. Cllr Banawich said: "There are concerns about the fumes and whether waste catches fire and causes health risks. There's also worries in general about the safety of the site - children have been see hanging around there on a night. It's something that has raised our concerns but there are ongoing talks with the company and we are looking for reassurances from them that they are taking matters seriously."

Cory Environmental, the company developing the pit, responded by saying they are increasingly concerned about the arson attacks and they intend to increase security. They also warn the arsonists they are placing their lives at risk by playing with fire.

A spokesperson for the company said: "Certainly security will be stepped up and it is under review at the moment. It must be stressed that security is in place at the moment."

Neil Bennett, general manager of Cory's businesses in the North West, said: "We do have a presence on the site 24 hours a day, with security guards in attendance outside of operational hours, but if someone is determined enough to break in and start these fires we need to stop them before the community has a fatality on its hands."