A man is wanted by police for endangering lives by repeatedly vandalising traffic lights in Carterton.

Police believe the man is responsible for tampering with lights at the junction of Upavon Way, Burford Road and Monahan Way five times in the past four months.

In the first attack, in the early hours of September 15, the traffic lights control panel was forced open and wires slashed beyond repair.

In the early hours of October 18, 26, and November 1, the control panel was again opened and the offender changed the light sequence to be permanently red in all directions.

On November 5, sector inspector Darren Carver warned in the Oxford Mail that the man could face up to seven years in prison if caught.

But a month later, on December 16, the vandal struck again, tampering with wires and causing the lights to remain on red. The last two incidents were caught on film after police set up a mobile CCTV unit.

There has been repeated damage to traffic lights in the town during the past two years, and police are now investigating whether all of the incidents could be linked to this man.

Insp Carver said: "As well as the cost and inconvenience involved in repairing the damage, this man is also endangering the lives of motorists by causing such foolish disruption to these traffic lights.

"Such wanton vandalism will not be tolerated in Carterton and I would appeal for anyone who feels that they recognise the man concerned to contact us immediately before someone comes to real harm."

Town councillor Philip Scott said the council was hoping to get permanent CCTV cameras.

Anyone with information is asked to call 0845 8505505