BENCHES and play park equipment were set on fire at a country park in Ashley Heath.

An investigation has been launched into the arson incident at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest.

Dorset Police says it happened at around 5.10pm on Thursday, March 19, and a group of three young people set fire to benches and play park equipment.

The fires were extinguished by staff members, but the items were damaged.

One of the group of young people is described as male and was wearing a yellow hooded top and glasses. A second male member of the group was described as having dark hair and was wearing black-coloured clothing.

PC Steve Knight said: “Thankfully, the fires were extinguished before they were able to take hold and cause a risk to life for anyone using the surrounding forest. I am appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the relevant time to please get in touch.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team have been carrying out increased patrols in the area, assisted by Dorset Council."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200042343. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.