POLICE, the fire service and Redditch Council have joined forces for the first time to tackle the problem of arson attacks on cars.

Operation Fire-Safe comes after it was revealed Redditch had the highest number of arson attacks on abandoned or stolen vehicles in the county.

For the first time in Worcestershire, mobile billboard advertising will be used to inform people about the campaign.

And from Monday until July 5, the council will declare a vehicle amnesty, allowing people to dispose of their cars for free.

The billboard will visit schools throughout Redditch and at hotspot areas where cars are abandoned and torched.

Anyone wanting to have their car disposed of for free can call a 24-hour hotline on 534130. The usual charge is £60.

There will also be an enforcement period between July 22 and August 2 when the DVLA will be providing wheel clamping and a car crusher for vehicles that are not taxed.