Arson attack at protected Cotswolds conservation site
Summary
The fire broke out on Cleeve Common in Bishop’s Cleeve at around 9.45pm on July 1. Gloucestershire Police believe the blaze was started deliberately and an arson investigation has been launched. Grassland and trees were burned by the fire, but no injuries were reported.
Details
A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 8.06pm on 1 July to reports of an area of grassland on fire. “A 20m x 10m area of grass was alight and we sent one fire engine from Winchcombe to put it out. The stop time was 9.25pm.” Police investigating the blaze are appealing for information from anyone who saw what happened.
“Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have seen two people acting suspiciously in the area, is asked to submit information online by completing the following form and quoting reference 53260053786,” the force said in a statement. Cleeve Common said in a statement that the fire spread quickly and issued a pointed reminder about its ‘no fires or barbeques’ rule.
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“With another heat wave on the way we know it is tempting. But please pack a picnic and leave the alfresco cooking to safer spots. Thank you so much for you help and understanding,” the statement added.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live