FIRE ripped through a row of cars after arsonists torched a van containing highly flammable gas canisters.

The vehicles were parked in Balfe Court, Colchester, when the fire started just after 2am on Friday.

Three of the cars – a white Nissan van, black Isuzu Trooper and a modified Landrover Discovery – all belonged to one family and were destroyed in the fire.

A family member who wished to remain anonymous said: “We just woke up to this bang at 2am.

“I looked out the window and the van was on fire and because it is a work support van it contains these gas cylinders.

“After that it just swept through – it was like a domino effect right through to the end of the road.

“The doors of the van were open so it looks like they have broken into it and taken hundreds of pounds worth of tools and then set fire to it.

She added: “These people are totally reckless, irresponsible and spiteful and had absolutely no consideration for anybody’s safety.

“The only saving grace is we have another car which was parked elsewhere and no-one was hurt.

“If anyone saw or knows anything then they should take the information to the police as soon as possible.

“It is just heart breaking somebody would decide to do something like this.”

Residents living near the blaze were told to leave their homes because the cylinders containing acetylene – a highly flammable gas – could explode. However, there was no damage to surrounding properties.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service was able to completely extinguish the blaze within two and a half hours and said the cause was deliberate.

A convertible Vauxhall Astra belonging to a neighbour was also completely burnt out, while another car had melted bodywork.

Conor Ashton, 22, of Purcell Close, heard the fire from his home which is about 300 yards away.

He said: “Within the last couple of months people have been setting bin areas alight.

“I was in my bedroom and I heard the same popping noise again so thought it was that. I went outside and jogged up the road and saw two cars and a van on fire.”

Police confirmed the incident is being treated as arson. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 71 of February 10 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.