Police have launched an appeal following a suspected arson attack on a stolen car.

As reported by the News, two arrests have been made following a day of drama in which a stolen car was set on fire on the A35 near to the Charmouth Roundabout.

The busy road had to close briefly as firefighters tackled the blaze on the side of the carriageway.

Police officers also attended the incident and found that there was no driver at the scene and rescuers searched the area in case anyone was injured.

Later, it emerged that the car had been stolen from Wiltshire.

It was further alleged that a wallet had been stolen from a staff area in Charmouth and the victim’s bank card had been used to pay for a taxi from Charmouth to Dorchester.

Following enquiries, a 43-year-old woman from Shaftesbury was arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation, theft of a motor vehicle and burglary.

A 24-year-old man from Wincanton in Somerset was arrested on suspicion of arson, fraud by false representation, theft of a motor vehicle and burglary.

They have both been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Police Sergeant Scott Williams, of Dorset Police, said: “As part of my investigation, I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in relation to the vehicle fire on the A35.

“I would ask motorists with a dashcam travelling in the area around the relevant time on Sunday morning to please check their footage for anything that may assist my enquiries.”

Armed police were seen in the area of Dorchester West railway station about 3pm on Sunday where arrests were made as part of the investigation.

Dorset Police has said the units were acting as normal response officers rather than in an armed capacity.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240173263.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.