Double arson attack prompts appeal

8 February 2011, 15:03 | Updated: 21 February 2011, 13:50

Police are appealing for witnesses after an offender lit pieces of paper and pushed them through the letterbox of a house in Dunstable.

It happened between 3.30pm and 3.40pm on Tuesday (Feb 8) at an address in Osborne Road occupied buy an elderly woman. She immediately spotted the paper and took it outside before it could cause any damage.

DS Terry Davis, investigating, is keen to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the street around that time, or thinks they know who may be responsible.

Police are keeping an open mind as to whether the incident is linked to a similar one in Bunhill Close at 10.25pm on Monday (Feb 7), where minor damage was caused to the back of a door.

DS Davis said: “Although damage has been slight, these offences could have been far worse had it not been for the swift actions of the occupants, who have no idea why they have been treated in this way.

“I would like to reassure residents that our Safer Neighbourhood Teams are fully sighted on these incidents, patrols have been stepped up and we will do all in our power to find the person or persons responsible.

“In the meantime I would urge anyone with information that might assist this inquiry to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information can contact DS Davis, or DC Phil Raikes, in confidence on 01582 473333, the main switchboard on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 200011.