Probe after ‘deliberate’ wheelie bin fires in Cotswolds

Thames Valley Police has said it wants local people to “remain vigilant” after the fires in the Charlbury area over the past few weeks.

Police community support officer for Cherwell and West Oxfordshire, Wesley Smith, said: “There have been incidents where wheelie bins have been deliberately set on fire in Sheep Street and Hixet Wood.

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“These incidents were on the 10th of August. ”

He asks that if you have any information about the incidents, or know who may be responsible, to contact the force on 101 or report it online, quoting the reference number 43260416798.

He added: “With the current extremely hot and dry conditions, this behaviour is incredibly dangerous.

“A small fire can spread rapidly to nearby fences, hedges, vehicles, homes and surrounding vegetation, potentially putting lives and property at serious risk.”

As well as reporting any information about the fires the police want people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, and – where possible – keep wheelie bins away from buildings, fences and other combustible materials.

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In addition, locals should check any available CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage if an incident has occurred nearby, and call 999 if they see anyone deliberately or recklessly starting a fire.

Mr Smith added: “Deliberately starting fires is not harmless behaviour. In these conditions, the consequences could be devastating.

“Please share this message with friends, family and neighbours in the Charlbury area.”