A firebug who put lives in danger by starting blazes in three different areas where she lived has been locked up indefinitely.

Barbara Gordon-Jones was told she would not be considered for release until she had served a minimum of five years, less over two years she has spent on remand awaiting sentence.

Deciding against imposing a hospital order under the Mental Health Act, Judge David Griffith-Jones QC told the 51-year-old: "On any view your actions were wicked. In some of them you meant to put your victims' lives at risk."

Gordon-Jones, of Crockhurst Street, Tudeley, near Tonbridge, denied six offences of arson with intent to endanger life, seven of arson and three of criminal damage, but was convicted in May 2009.

There had since been various delays while psychiatric reports were prepared.

Maidstone Crown Court heard she torched homes and cars and slashed tyres in Bletchingley in Surrey and Chiddingstone and Tudeley in Kent. Her victims were often elderly and vulnerable.

Gordon-Jones was twice arrested on suspicion of starting fires and still continued to offend after her release.

The judge said he fervently hoped Gordon-Jones would continued to receive the treatment she needed while in prison.