THE OWNER of a Somercotes business that was targeted by arsonists is offering a £10,000 reward for information which leads to the arrest of the people involved.

Around 80 fire fighters tackled the blaze at Smiths Pallets on Cotes Park Lane which destroyed 60,000 wooden pallets on November 3.

Owner Jonathan Smith wants the culprits caught to make sure it doesn't happen again.

He said: "On that night a person or persons entered the yard and lit a fire which resulted in us losing all the stock, including three trailers and lorries.

Forensics proved that the fire was arson and the incident is under investigation by the police.

Mr Smith said: "It has been very stressful but we got through it ok. "
He said he hoped the reward would encourage anybody who knows anything to contact the police with information. "I think it was kids. I'm counting on one or two people knowing about who maybe have not had the heart to report it."


The business opened the following Monday after the fire. Mr Smith said: "Our main concern was to get up and running again and not let the customers down.

"My fear is that if they don't catch who did it they will do again once we have built the business back up. I would like them to be caught, if they are not it will be at the back of my mind.

"Hopefully this will give the police a bit of help and somebody will be encouraged to come forward and do something."

Anyone with information on those involved with the arson should call Derbyshire Police on 0845 123 3333.

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Last Updated: 26 November 2007 4:37 P