POLICE are stepping up patrols on Princess Road in Poole after a series of arson incidents throughout the year.

A vehicle fire, believed to have started deliberately, was reported at 3.38am on October 20, followed by a report at 5.19am of a bin fire at the entrance to the park in Princess Road – again believed to have been started deliberately.

“Reports of suspicious vehicle fires in the road were also received on September 10, September 29 and October 3,” a Dorset Police spokesperson said.

“This follows reports of bins being set on fire in February, March and August of this year as well as a fire involving a mattress in July.”

Sergeant Euan Douglas, of the Poole Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Officers are continuing to investigate the incidents that occurred during the early hours of Sunday, October 20, and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the vicinity to please make contact with us.

“I would also ask that residents with home CCTV systems or doorbell cameras, as well as any motorists with dashcam who were in the area, please check their footage for anything that might assist our enquiries.

“We are keen to hear from anyone with information relating to all of these incidents.

“We are working with our partners in the local authority and fire service and we will continue to conduct additional patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community.

“Our officers can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police via their website or call 101, quoting occurrence number 55240161670.