Do the right thing: A thousand pound reward offered to catch the Frome arsonist - or could there be more than one?

By Susie Watkins

5th May 2020 | Local News

A new appeal to catch those responsible for a spate of arson attacks all centered in a small area of Frome and it now comes with a large financial incentive.

Up to a thousand pounds is now being offered for anyone who comes forward with information about the arsonist.

In a notice posted by the local police, Crime Stoppers is offering the reward in return for information to stop "dangerous recent fires."

Last week there was an attack on a four-floored building on Selwood Road in Frome -which the fire service ruled as arson.

Back in February a popular local butchers shop, H.E Williams and sons was destroyed just around the corner from Selwood Road on Badcox.

What started as a car fire outside the shop spread to the shop front, leaving the business destroyed.

At the time Nub News was told that there have been up to a half dozen vehicle fires in the nearby area over the past two years.

There was a national appeal in November 2018 after two arson attacks, again in Selwood Road.

However Frome Town Council reported on its web site back in December 2015 " We seem to have some arsonists in the town at the moment, who like nothing better than torching cars. In addition, a number of vehicles have also had their windows smashed and hand brakes released."

Neighbourhood Sergeant Rachel Clark said: "We're grateful to Crimestoppers for offering this reward. Last month we saw two bin fires, in Selwood Road and Whittox Lane, and a car fire in Trinity Road.

"These fires put an unnecessary burden on the fire and rescue service and could delay their response to other incidents.

"Fire is unpredictable and can easily spread to nearby properties, as happened on Valentine's Day, when a car fire in Baker Street spread to a nearby shop. These fires in the early hours, while most people are asleep, are reckless and it's only luck that no one has been hurt."

Now Crimestoppers, which is guaranteeing one hundred per cent anonymity, has renewed an appeal for information which leads to an arrest.

Karen MacDonald Regional Manager Crimestoppers in the West Country said: " We are urging people – anyone who may know who is behind these arson attacks – to come forward . We know that some people feel unable to speak directly to the authorities.

"Like the millions of others who have trusted us with their crime information since we began over 32 years ago, Crimestoppers can pass on what you know to the relevant people and no one, other than you, will know you contacted our charity.

"You can report anonymously via www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call our contact centre which is open 24/7 on freephone 0800 555 111. Please do the right thing and prevent a tragedy "