Manhunt after string of 'mindless' arson attacks

Three young children were among those asleep inside the home when the fire broke out

A manhunt has been launched after a string of "mindless" arson attacks that resulted in one home being destroyed.

Detectives at Avon and Somerset Police have released CCTV of a man they hope to trace as they believe several incidents in and around Fishponds, Bristol, are linked.

Tyres have been slashed, vehicles have been set alight, and a family home was engulfed by flames after a blaze spread from a car parked outside.

Insp Luke Keenan said: "We understand and share people's concerns, and the neighbourhood team has been supporting the investigation team with local enquiries as well as attending community meetings to discuss this and other issues."

Police are keen to identify a man captured on CCTV in the early hours of 6 July

Emergency services were called to Oldbury Court Road just after 03:30 BST on Thursday following reports a car had been set on fire.

Enquiries continue into the cause, which Avon Fire and Rescue Service say was deliberate.

Another car was set alight on Grove Road at about 02:00 BST on Wednesday. This time the blaze spread to a second vehicle and damaged the front door of a nearby house.

Police confirmed no one was hurt, but the adult occupants of the property were left "shocked and distressed" by the ordeal.

'Mindless violence'

In another incident, a family home on Oldbury Court Road was destroyed after flames spread from a car parked outside, at about 03:20 BST on 30 August.

Three young children were among those asleep inside when the fire broke out. All occupants managed to escape but the property is uninhabitable, police said.

In a statement, the family said: "This mindless act of violence has not only deeply impacted my family physically but emotionally.

"The support or our family, friends and community have allowed us to soldier on. We would like to thank the fire department and police for their efforts."

Police are keen to identify the man captured on CCTV on 27 August (L) and 30 August

Police are keen to identify a man seen on CCTV in the early hours of 6 July in the area of River View, where several vehicles' tyres were damaged.

He is described as a young white man, who appears to have a distinctive walk.

Officers would also like to trace a man seen on CCTV in Fishponds Road and Oldbury Court Road in the early hours of Wednesday 27 August.

Another clip from about 02:30 on 30 August shows a similarly dressed person.

Officers have urged anyone with any relevant information to get in touch.