There were a record number of car fires in the Netherlands last year, with the total number of claims rising 12% to 4,941, Dutch insurance organisation VvV said on Wednesday.

But the total number of car fires is likely to be higher because lease cars and cars without comprehensive insurance are not included in the claim figures, the VvV said.

Most claims are made by car owners in Rotterdam, where the total hit 573 between 2016 and 2019. The Hague was in second place, followed by Amsterdam and Utrecht.

But when looked at by provinces, Noord-Brabant is in second place with almost as many claims as Zuid-Holland as a whole. Car fires are particularly common during the New Year celebrations in rural areas.

Insurers say the rise in arson attacks on cars is worrying because many take place in residential areas and fires can easily spread. They recommend drivers park in well-lit areas if possible.