A suspected arson attack on a farmer's field in north England has resulted in some £30,000 (around €35,200) worth of damage, according to local police.

North Yorkshire Police said that four teenagers were arrested on Friday (July 17) in connection with the incident.

The arson attack is believed to have been carried out the previous Sunday (July 12), on the outskirts of the city of York.

The fire, which is believed to have been started with a lighter, required considerable resources from emergency services to bring under control.

The four teenagers arrested - two boys and two girls - were all aged 14.

Following further inquiries, the two girls were excluded as suspects in this incident, but remain under investigation for a separate suspected arson reported later the same day.

Police said they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the the field fire.

They say that the fire, once started, spread rapidly across the field and became uncontrollable within a very short period of time.

A sergeant in the York Outer Neighbourhood Policing Team commented: "This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with fire-setting.

"What may begin as a seemingly minor act can quickly escalate, causing extensive damage, placing lives at risk, and placing significant demands on emergency services," the sergeant added.

"We would urge parents, carers and young people to be aware of these risks and to discuss the very real dangers of starting fires in open spaces," the sergeant said.

He thanked the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for "their swift and professional response in tackling what became a significant fire".

The sergeant also recognised two members of the public who made a particular effort to prevent the fire from spreading, by creating a firebreak in the field before the arrival of emergency services.

"Their actions undoubtedly assisted in limiting the damage caused, and it is pleasing to see them receiving the recognition they deserve for their efforts," the police sergeant said.