POLICE were forced to put out a fire started by a group of young people in Christchurch on Friday evening.

A group of youths were dispersed by police and a local takeaway business assisted the force by supplying water which was used to put out the fire on September 24.

Officers spoke to a person in relation to the incident and say they will be “dealt with appropriately”.

A spokesman from Christchurch Police Station said: “While returning to the station for the end of their shift, NPT officers came across a number of youths who had started a small fire on the wall of a residential property.

“Fortunately, we were doubled crewed this evening and one officer was able to remain to put out the fire while the second was able to pursue and stop one of the youths who had been involved, who will be dealt with appropriately.

“The fire had been lit below a large hedge and could have easily resulted in a large fire with serious consequences had officers not been able to intervene.

“Officers had previously seized alcohol from a number of youths gathered on Steamer's Point, and it seems likely that some of those present were involved in this incident.

“We will continue to monitor and deal with antisocial behaviour as it arises and encourage Christchurch residents to make us aware of any similar incidents which may occur in the future.”