ARSONISTS caused almost £2,000 damage by setting fire to an allotment shed.

Police are appealing for witnesses after a shed was burned to the ground in an arson attack in allotments in Burford Road, Chipping Norton last week. Details were only released today.

The attack took place at about 2.20am on Thursday, March 20, and destroyed tools estimated to be worth £1,800.

PC Robert Kelly said: "There have been dozens of incidents at the allotments over the last 18 months and they are have a long-term affect on the local community.

"We are doing what we can to counteract it, however, this site is out of the way and not overlooked and as such is vulnerable to vandalism, especially overnight.

"I would like to appeal for anyone who may have seen something suspicious in the area of the allotments on Wednesday night or Thursday morning, for example someone carrying a petrol can, to come forward. And if you have any information about other incidents at the allotments, please let us know and help us clear up this ongoing problem."

Anyone with information should contact police on 08458 505505 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.