The number of children being sent on firebug classes has rocketed since the tragic death of two young brothers in a house fire.

Youngsters as young as five are being taught the dangers of playing with lighters and matches by trained firefighters.

Latest figures show there have been 20 referrals to East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s firesetters advisory scheme in the last quarter, up by 11 from the previous period.

The scheme aims to deter firesetting behaviour and arson by educating individual children aged between five and 16.

Numbers being referred to the scheme have shot up since the tragic death of Lewis and Taylor Jenkins on October 4.

Lewis, seven, and his brother Taylor, five, died after inhaling fumes when a blaze broke out at their home in Milfoil Drive, Eastbourne.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the tragedy has had a “noticeable upward effect” on the number of youngsters being referred to its firesetters scheme.

Councillor Mike Murphy, chairman of East Sussex Fire Authority, said: “These schemes are absolutely invaluable and effectively help to address the issue of fire and young people.

“Some children are naturally inquisitive and can get into the habit of playing with lighters and matches. It is important to get to them while they are young and break that habit. If parents are worried, they should contact the service and ask about the course.”

Referrals to the scheme in the past quarter have come mainly from parents, while police, schools and social workers have also flagged up potential firebugs.

There are now 20 open cases in the region. Eight are in Brighton, with three in Lewes, two in Eastbourne and seven in Hastings.

The fire that killed Lewis and Taylor Jenkins shocked Sussex.

Days later, more than 150 people gathered at Shinewater Community Church in Eastbourne to remember the brothers in a service days later.