Update: a teenager and two men have now been arrested.

Twelve vehicles across High Wycombe were damaged by fire this morning in what the authorities now say they believe was a series of suspected arson attacks.

Firefighters were battling the spate of fires from 4.20am today and within two and a half hours 12 cars across Castlefield had been set alight.

Police have not yet confirmed if the suspected arson attacks were random or if they were connected.

Eight vehicles were found set alight in a car park off Abercromby Avenue at about 4.20am in what was the first incident this morning.

The vehicles included a silver BMW 3 Series, a silver Citroen C4, a silver Mini Cooper.

At around 5.30am, a red Ford Escort was found to be on fire in Abercromby Avenue at the junction with Fryers Lane.

At 6.11am, a red Rover 414 car was found alight in Booker Lane.

Two vehicles, both silver Smart cars, were then discovered on fire in Juniper Drive.

All incidents are being treated as suspected arson and officers are investigating the circumstances.

Det Con Alex Kratky, from High Wycombe Local Area CID, said: “I am appealing for anyone with any information about the incidents or anyone who saw what happened to speak to police.

“Extra patrols are taking place in the area and if anyone in the community has any concerns they should feel free to approach an officer. Alternatively members of the public can call the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 to speak to a member of your Neighbourhood Team.”

Witnesses can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org