Sparks flew when a group of Conservative council candidates toured Hainault yesterday - and found a child’s bike on fire.

Ilford Recorder: A child's bike was set alight in Fairview Drive. Photo: Paul CanalA child's bike was set alight in Fairview Drive. Photo: Paul Canal (Image: Archant)

Melvyn Marks and Pauline Fynn were on the campaign trail in Fairview Drive when they saw the flames behind a block of flats.

After calling the fire brigade, they helped residents move leaves and flammable material out the way.

A fire engine put the blaze out in less than 10 minutes at around 4pm. Residents believed the bike was set alight deliberately by vandals.

Mrs Fynn said: “They have expressed serious concerns about vandalism, safety and security which we will be addressing.”

Youths had previously been seen clambering over garage roofs at Radley Court.