VANDALS caused a loud explosion and damage to a grit bin in Wilton after taping a set of fireworks to the container.

The incident took place at around 11.30pm on Monday night at the junction of South Street and Bulbridge Road.

PC Matt Holland, the community policing co-ordinator for the area, said: "A member of the public called us after hearing a loud explosion and looking out of the window to see the extensive damage caused.

"It appears the offender or offenders has taped three fireworks together and set them off in or on the grit bin.

"Not only is this mindless vandalism which has damaged council property, but everyone involved was incredibly lucky that they were not seriously hurt."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.