Up to 20 bins have been damaged in the Farriers Estate in Borehamwood since the summer with two in the last few days and police are trying to track down the arsonists before someone gets seriously injured.

PC Tom Campbell, who is investigating the series, said: “We are taking these crimes very seriously. The fires have been started close to homes and it is only a matter of time before someone gets injured.

“We have been working closely with Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue and are appealing for residents or anyone who has any information about the fire to contact us, so we can put a stop to this.

“It is possible it is a prank, but the offenders need to realise the consequences of their actions."

Between 9.30pm and 9.40pm, a mattress was set alight which spread to a nearby bin at the Community Centre in Farriers Way on March 26.

Between 10pm and 10.30pm, a bin was set on fire in Dales Path on March 21.

Anyone with any information should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary on 101.