Caravan destroyed in arson attack in public park

The fire service said the fire was set deliberately

A caravan has been destroyed in an arson attack at a popular public green space.

Avon and Somerset Police has launched an investigation into the incident, which happened on Parry's Lane near the Downs in Bristol, at 23:10 BST on Saturday.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was put out quickly using three appliances and a hose reel jet, with the cause deemed to be deliberate.

In recent months, tensions have been rising among residents over anti-social behaviour and littering on the Downs, where more than 100 vehicles are being lived in.

A cordon was put in place while emergency services attended the scene, and the road has since reopened.

Police have appealed for anyone with information which might aid their investigation to come forward.

It is unclear whether anyone had been living in the caravan at the time, though no injuries have been reported.

Personal belongings were scattered around the charred shell of the mobile home

Some van dwellers say they were forced into the lifestyle due to the cost of living crisis and high rent prices across Bristol.

Bristol City Council has recognised the growing need to offer alternative housing and is now looking to find a permanent site for van-dwellers elsewhere.

The authority is also working on establishing temporary "meanwhile sites", where people would be offered pitches in exchange for a small fee, and have access to services like toilets and running water.