FOUR cars have been destroyed by a fire started deliberately in what police have said is a “mindless” act.

Residents of Birkdale Close, Redhouse, watched in horror as the flames ripped through the vehicles in the early hours of this morning.

Ten firefighters tackled the blaze for almost three hours after it began to spread to adjourning buildings. Luckily no one was hurt.

The alarm was raised at 2.45am after neighbours heard an “explosion” before seeing flames spread through the brick car port.

“We just heard what sounded like fireworks,” one neighbour told the Adver.

“But when we looked out the window we saw a bin shed on fire. It then spread to a car port and soon spread to the car’s wax. One of the cars was brand-new.

“It was a really bad fire. No one is sure what started it yet.”

Due to the intensity of the fire, crews from Stratton and Swindon also remained on the scene for some time afterwards to check the block of flats and two houses next to the car port was safe.

Four breathing apparatus wearers used two hose reel jets and a main jet.

Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for information to the arson.

A spokesman said: “At approximately 2.45am, unknown suspects have deliberately set fire to a vehicle parked in a car port in Birkdale Close.

“The fire spread to a further three cars. The cars affected were a Honda Civic, a Mercedes SLK, a Renault Clio and a Vauxhall Adam.”

PC Beckie Diamon added: "This was a mindless act and I'd like to reassure members of the community that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into this incident.

"It was very fortunate that nobody was injured and no houses were affected by the fire - adjoining houses were checked for fire damage by fire crews and all occupants were found to be safe and well.

"The cars had all been parked since between 5pm and 6.30pm on Monday.

"It is believed the fire started at the front of a parked Renault Clio. Fire crews attended the scene and at this stage, we are treating the incident as suspicious.

"We'd like to appeal to anyone who may have seen or heard any suspicious behaviour in the area to contact police immediately on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously if preferred."