Police plea over deliberately-lit Lorne fire

TORQUAY Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for information from the public following a fire in bushland near Lorne yesterday.

Emergency services were called to the Blanket Leaf Picnic area, situated on Erskine Falls Road, after a fire was spotted about 10.40am.

The fire caused considerable damage to surrounding bushland before it was extinguished by local CFA and Lorne Department of Sustainability and Environment officers.

Police believe a van, described as being an older type and either cream or yellow in colour, was in the vicinity of the picnic area just prior to the fire.

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information or anyone who witnessed the van in the area at the time to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au