EMERGENCY services were out in force at Kidderminster's Rifle Range Nature Reserve at the weekend.

Firefighters were called out more than 20 times as the ongoing problem of young arsonists starting multiple fires worsened.

Two minors were arrested on Sunday night on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Police also carried out a high profile operation to clamp down on teenagers causing misery by recklessly riding motorbikes on the reserve, with four given warnings that the police have the power to seize the vehicles - and would do so next time.

Kidderminster firefighter Warren Midgley said crews were called out more than 20 times, on most occasions to more than one blaze typically affecting areas of about 200 metres by 100 metres.

"We believe they were deliberate fires started by children," he said.

The brigade had repeatedly warned the fires keep them away from other incidents, putting lives at risk.

Beat officer PC Maria Gladstone-Lindsell, of Kidderminster Police, said following the arrests: "We are putting out the strong message that these acts will not be tolerated.

"We will take action against anyone found to be starting fires in this area."

Police helicopters took to the skies as officers, with help from Wyre Forest Rangers, staged a clampdown on dangerous and illegal motorbike riding on the reserve.

A police spokeswoman said it was carried out in response to complaints from residents and people who use the space to walk their dogs.

"The manner of riding has caused a lot of concern. Somebody complained that their dog had been nearly run down," she added.

Officers are also reminding parents of their responsibilities and have stressed landowners could find themselves liable if a rider was injured on private land.

And all the usual rules regarding insurance, tax and MoT apply to bikes being ridden in public areas like the reserve - and anyone flouting these rules could expect to go to court, the spokeswoman added.