A MAN has been arrested in connection with a trail of destruction that saw more than a dozen vehicles set on fire in the Wimborne area.

The fires were set in the early hours of Monday morning (May 15), between approximately 1am and 3am, in the Broadstone, Wimborne and Merley areas.

Dorset Police said it is believed 13 vehicles and two properties were affected in Wentworth Drive, Oakley Hill, Oakley Road, Merley Way, Stour Walk, New Borough Road, Grove Road and Leigh Road.

A full investigation was launched and following a number of enquiries a local man aged in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of arson.

Chief Inspector Andy Edwards said: “This matter has been the subject of a detailed investigation and I would like to thank everyone who responded to our appeals for information, as well as residents in the area for their patience and understanding as we conduct enquiries in the vicinity.

READ MORE: VIDEO: Cars set on fire in Wimborne area in early hours’ incidents

“We fully understand the impact of these incidents on the victims, but also within the wider communities of Broadstone, Wimborne and Merley.

“I want to take this opportunity to reassure residents that officers from our neighbourhood policing teams will continue to carry out enhanced patrols in the area and can be approached by members of the public with any information or concerns.

“Also, I would like to renew our appeal for any witnesses to any of the incidents or anyone who might have seen suspicious activity in the roads mentioned to please come forward.

“I urge anyone who may have home CCTV or doorbell cameras installed in those areas and anyone with dashcam to please check their footage to see if there is anything of relevance that could help us.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230073977. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.