Arsonists strike at pump station.

Water bosses are facing a massive repair bill that could reach six figures after an attack at a Newcastle pump station.

Arsonists set fire to a stack of rubber tyres outside the Northumbrian Water pump station, off Queens Road, Walbottle, at about 9.30pm on Wednesday night.

Police believe the tyres were dumped at the site - which is popular with fly tippers - and set on fire by youngsters who often gather outside the station.

The fire left the building unsafe for use and threatened the water supply for up to 40,000 people living in Westerhope, West Denton, Newbiggen Hall, Kenton, Lemington, Chapel House and Heddon-on-the-Wall.

Alistair Baker of Northumbrian Water said: "This was a very irresponsible act that could have had severe implications on the pump house and threatened the integrity of the water supply to the west end of Newcastle.

"Fortunately by acting immediately and working through the night our

people were able to avoid the water supply being cut off to those people.

"We made temporary solutions and brought supplies in from other areas to avoid people being left without water.

"However rezoning the system did stir up some sediment in the water supply which is harmless but not pleasant for customers.

"It certainly will cost many tens of thousands of pounds and eventually the repair bill may well be into six figures."

Police are appealing for anyone with any information on the fire to call Newcastle North CID on [phone] ext 62568.