Arson attack on speed camera

Arsonists set fire to a safety camera in Telford today after dousing it in fuel.

A tyre was placed on top of the camera in Dawley Road, Arleston, shortly after 4am and a blanket draped over the top. The arsonists then poured a full can of petrol over the top and set it on fire. Sub-officer Alan Wilson, of Wellington fire station, described it as a "deliberate attack".

He said: "They have put a tyre on the top, draped it in a blanket and then set it on fire.

"Fortunately for us, and for those who pay for them, it went upwards and didn't damage the speed camera.

"We think it is still working."

Sub-officer Wilson said firefighters were pretty certain petrol had been used to start the fire after a petrol can was found at the scene.

Denise Wakefield, Telford police spokeswoman, said: "Police officers went out to the scene shortly after 4am today when it was set on fire.

"We would appeal for anyone with information in relation to the incident to come forward."

Anyone with information about the arson attack is asked to call Telford police on 08457 444888.

The safety camera was installed on the road in 2005 following the death of five-year-old Benjamin O'Shea.

Benjamin died the year before after being hit by a car as he crossed the road with his mother.

The West Mercia Camera Safety Partnership announced two cameras would be installed on Dawley Road following his inquest.

Arsonists have attacked cameras in the area before.In 2005 the camera in Station Road, Ketley was left blackened by flames after being vandalised in an apparent arson attack and also daubed with red paint.

Arsonists set light to the speed trap in Bennetts Bank, Wellington – Shropshire's first permanent camera – during the same month.

It was also targeted by a disgruntled motorist who sliced it in half with an industrial circular saw after it first went live.

By Crime Correspondent Kirsty Smallman