FIREFIGHTERS have cut arson in Hertfordshire by 20 per cent by working with the culprits, and say they will do even better in future.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is supporting a new national drive to cut the level of fire-related youth crimes, including arson and hoax calls, just announced by Fire Minister Angela Smith.

She said: "Whilst I am glad that we have been successful in recent years in driving down levels of youth fire crime and resulting deaths, we must continue and strengthen our efforts.

"Today's action plan is not only another step in the right direction, but it will also show Government's commitment to helping the Fire and Rescue Service to combat anti-social behaviour and reduce the fire risk faced by vulnerable young people."

Paul Blande of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We already have many successful initiatives running in the county that are driving down statistics.

We recently carried out our first LIFE (local intervention fire education) scheme and are planning four more in the coming year, with around 48 young people taking part."

Under the LIFE schemes, teenagers attend a fire station for a week, with specialised trainers challenging their attitudes and behaviour.