Investigation launched after large fire near Weston-super-Mare
An investigation has been launched into a large wildfire on the edge of Weston-super-Mare, with police appealing for information about people "acting suspiciously" in the area. The blaze began near Locking Farm Industrial Estate in the early hours of Tuesday, August 18, and firefighters rushed to the scene at around 3am to contain it near the A371.
The road was closed during the fire, and crews left the area at around 45pm, after which Locking Road was reopened. Police said two industrial units were engulfed by the flames and several businesses have been severely impacted.
Avon and Somerset Police said their investigations are in the early stages and officers are following several lines of enquiry. A number of high-visibility reassurance patrols will be carried out in the coming days, and residents are encouraged to approach officers to discuss any concerns, the force said in a statement.
Police appeal for information
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Andy Barry said: "We understand incidents like this are a huge concern locally and nationally following recent incidents during an extended period of hot and dry weather, and an investigation into the full circumstances is in its early stages but appropriate action will be taken against anyone found to have committed criminal offences."
"It was fortunate nobody was seriously harmed during this incident, and members of the public should expect to see an increased presence in the area while enquiries continue," he added.
Barry also warned: "During periods of exceptionally hot weather we have been experiencing, fires in dry fields can burn incredibly quickly, resulting in serious damage, injury, or even death."
Police are appealing for anyone who saw people acting suspiciously on or near the A371, or anything unusual in the area between 2am and 3am on Tuesday, to come forward. They are urging witnesses, those with information, or anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or mobile phone footage to contact them via an online appeals form or by calling 101, quoting reference number 5226232390.
Teenage boy arrested
On Saturday, August 22, Avon and Somerset Police arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of arson in connection with the fire. He remains in police custody.
Early fire investigation work concluded that the cause of the fire had likely been deliberate. Detectives have carried out house-to-house and CCTV enquiries as part of their investigation.
The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.