THE HERTS Advertiser has always been proud to be first with the news – and now we have shown ourselves to be ahead of the police as well. Two weeks ago we reported on our front page how quick-thinking Richard Griffith of Coombes Road, London Colney, was w

THE HERTS Advertiser has always been proud to be first with the news - and now we have shown ourselves to be ahead of the police as well.

Two weeks ago we reported on our front page how quick-thinking Richard Griffith of Coombes Road, London Colney, was walking through Clarence Park in St Albans when he saw smoke billowing from the bowling club clubhouse.

Richard realised that someone had piled leaves and cardboard up against the side of the building and set it on fire. He managed to move much of the pile away from the side of the building with his hands before ringing the fire brigade.

This week the police put out an appeal for witnesses and information - and particularly for the man who put out the fire.

Step forward Mr Griffith whose photograph shaking the hand of bowling club secretary Alan Brittain was carried with the article in the Herts Advertiser.

Investigating officer, Pc Mark Essam, said: "It is clear that the fire was deliberately started and we are therefore making inquiries. The actions of Mr Griffith on the day of the fire were commendable and we will be making contact with him to investigate this crime further.

"We would always ask members of the public to contact police if a crime has taken place or if they have been a witness to any incident or crime. Any information you provide could enable us to apprehend and punish those responsible."

He urged anyone with information about a crime or incident to call police on 0845 33 00 222 or if a crime was ongoing and was a threat to life or damage to property to always ring 999.