POLICE are investigating two fires which are thought to have been started deliberately in Stapenhill.

The first, on Saturday morning, at the former Short Street Community Infants School, completely destroyed a wooden playhouse.

The second, on the same day, was near to Paulett School in Violet Way.

Two teenager boys were seen walking away from the scene of the first incident and in the direction of the second. Police are now investigating whether the two incidents are linked.

Trent Valley Police spokesman Peter Sevens said: "We believe the fires were started deliberately.

"Two young people were spotted near the scene in Short Street and we are urging them to come forward."

The first fire broke out at about 5.42am on Saturday at the school, which is vacant. It started in a children's outdoor play house and spread to the nursery building.

Two crews from Burton were sent to the scene and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the fire.

Crews remained at the incident for two hours damping down remaining hot spots of fire and ventilating the premises.

The fire completely destroyed the wooden play house and caused severe damage to one wall of the nursery building.

The fire at Paulett School broke out at about 6.20am.

One crew from Tutbury were sent to this incident and they put out the small fire using one hose reel jet.

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to 0300 123 4455 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.