PARENTS have been warned to take responsibility for their children after a spate of arson attacks caused devastating fires.

Councillors joined Essex Police to urge parents across Rochford and Castle Point to keep an eye on their children following a spike in fires in parks and fields.

Youngsters have been spotted running from the scenes of the fires, the force said.

The warning comes after a huge fire in Hockley on Sunday which left grassland charred and blackened.

The fire service also urged Castle Point Council to cut the grass behind Canvey’s Cornelius Vermuyden School, on Dinant Avenue, to prevent any further fires being started.

This comes after arsonists set fire to grassland behind a school four times in the past week.

Cheryl Roe, deputy leader of Rochford District Council, is appalled at the fact police officers have been forced to issue such advice, saying: “I’m speechless really, it’s extremely disappointing.

“Police are responsible for dealing with anti-social behaviour, but there needs to be a balance with parents’ responsibility.

“It’s on the parents to take some responsibility for what their kids are doing. As a parent, I know where my daughter is at all times. Working isn’t an excuse to not know what your kids are doing.”

A spokesman for Essex Police, added: “Parents, with the summer holidays in full swing, do you know what your young are doing?

“We have received several reports of intentional fires caused in open spaces across the districts, with young people seen running from the scenes.

“As with many matters, it is always a minority, not the majority involved, and we do have many law-abiding young people around us.

“While we patrol our open spaces, there are things you can do to help us, such as reducing access to matches and lighters, and keeping a closer eye on where your children are going.”