A "SERIAL" arsonist is threatening to force a thriving Bury business to close.

Fire-raisers have targeted motor salvage dealers RM Stansfield Enterprises nine times in the past year.

In the latest attack (pictured), on Tuesday evening, 150 cars worth an estimated £60,000 were destroyed at the Tile Street yard.

Smoke could be seen for miles and fire crews from Bury and Ramsbottom worked through the night to extinguish the flames. Officers found three seats of fire in the scrapyard.

Flames spread to an adjoining yard where another five vehicles were damaged.

Owner Mr Ray Stansfield, is now calling for greater police protection at his firm, which commands an annual £1million turnover.

He said: "I bought the yard nearly three years ago and have ploughed £300,000 into making it profitable.

"On top of that I have installed £7,000 worth of security systems to protect my stock. The fires are being started deliberately and I don't think children are to blame."

Mr Stansfield added: "I can no longer get insurance and the money I have lost in this latest arson attack can never be claimed back. I could go out of business."

Detective Chief Inspector Frank Raggett said: "We have run a covert operation over a three-night period before now but to no avail. We will be planning a similar initiative in the very near future."

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