Firefighters have warned that a spate of arson attacks on taxis is putting lives at risk.

The number of fires to taxis in the Hastings area rose to eight in less then two weeks over the weekend.

On Friday night crews from Bohemia Road and The Ridge fire stations were called to deal with four deliberate car fires, two of them taxis.

Both were routinely dealt with but firefighters are concerned about the affect on resources the needless call-outs are having.

Sub officer Paul Way, of Bohemia Road Fire Station, said: "On Friday both appliances were called out for car fires which means if there was a major fire in the area with a threat to life, it could affect our response times.

"These calls are also needlessly endangering crews. Vehicles have the potential to explode when set alight and that provides a very real danger to anyone nearby, including us."

So far, three different taxis firms have suffered at the hands of arsonists while two private cars were also set alight over the weekend.

A spokesman for Hastings Police said the force was carrying out a full investigation but would not speculate on possble links between the incidents.

Police are appealing for information. Telephone 0845 60 70 999.