AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after four separate and suspicious fires occurred in Broadway in the early hours of this morning.

Firefighters from Broadway and Evesham were called to the police station in Leamington Road at 12.17am and found there was also a fire in the nearby library.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus and hose jets to deal with the flames.

Just under and hour later a crew from Pebworth were called to St Eadburghs Close in Snowshill Road and found a large fire in the building’s medieval doorway.

They used breathing apparatus, a hose reel and a covering jet to put out the fire.

Shortly after at 1.14am two crews from Evesham Fire Station were called to Lifford Hall in Lower Green and found another fire in the doorway.

They used breathing apparatus and a hose reel to put out the flames.

There was also a fire at Broadway Library, which will now be closed for the rest of the week.

And at am this morning staff at the Barn Close Surgery in High Street found flammable liquid had been thrown over the door but not ignited.

Detective Inspector Neil Austin of Worcester CID said: “Although we are at the very early stages of our investigation, it is clear these incidents are linked. Detectives are working closely with fire investigators from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and forensic examinations are taking place at each of the crime scenes.

“It is very unusual for a series of buildings to be targeted in one go like this, especially in Broadway, which is otherwise a very peaceful place.

“Most of them have not been too seriously affected, except for St Eadburgha’s Church, which is an historic and well-loved local building and has received some serious damage to its door.

“Thankfully no one has been hurt, but obviously the consequences of these fires could have been far worse and we need to find those responsible as soon as possible.

“If anyone saw any suspicious activity in Broadway last night, particularly between 11pm and 1am, please contact us straight away. One witness saw a small, dark-coloured car make off at speed from the scene of the police station and library fires, which may be or may not be involved."

DI Austin and Worcester CID can be contacted via the non-emergency police number 101 or information can be passed on anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers (0800 555 111 or via their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org). Please quote the reference number 3s 25/03/14.