CCTV appeal after arson attack

Dorset Police want to speak to a group of five or six young people seen in the area around Matalan on Babylon Hill, North Dorset at 8pm on Sunday June 1.

Police want to speak to them to see if they have any information about a malicious fire that was set later on that evening.

A number of industrial waste wheelie bins and metal storage cages containing cardboard were set alight during the incident, which happened at around 9.20pm at the rear of Matalan on Babylon Hill.

PC Chris Meade, of West Dorset police, said: “This was a highly dangerous incident that has caused significant damage. It is fortunate that no one was injured by this deliberate fire.

“Industrial waste wheelie bins have been totally destroyed, with damage also caused to some of the metal storage cages and fence panels. The fire was so ferocious that a number of the wheelie bins completely melted.”

Officers said the fire was set at around 9.20pm, but did not take hold until about 20 minutes later. The fire service attended at 10.20pm and extinguished the blaze.

PC Meade said: “Further enquiries show that at around 7.55pm, a group of five or six young people were in the area.

“The CCTV image that I have released shows three of them. One was wearing a green top and had a black rucksack with orange panels on it. He was also carrying a helmet that is partly yellow. Other members of the group were riding bikes and push along scooters.”

He added: “I would like to speak with this group to ascertain whether they have any information about the incident. I am appealing for the people shown, or anyone who recognises them, to contact the police.

“I urge witnesses or anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time around the incident to come forward as soon as possible.

“All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 1:469 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.