POLICE will step up their patrols in Poundbury after two benches were ripped out of the ground and set on fire in a night-time attack.

More than £600-worth of damage was caused at Holmead Walk, between 6.30pm on Friday and 8.40am on Saturday.

Police say the vandals forced one bench out of the ground and stacked it up and set it on fire.

A second bench was then pulled apart and thrown on the fire.

Chairman of Poundbury Residents’ Association Maurice Allen said that he was saddened to see the benches now destroyed.

He said that the residents of Poundbury only installed the benches three weeks ago and now doubts if they will replace them.

“Whoever did this must have ripped the bench out of the ground then ripped it apart and burned it,” he said.

“Then they have taken the second bench and ripped all the back off to use it for kindle for the fire.

“It is sad when this happens anywhere but the fact that these were only put in three weeks ago is such a shame.”

He added that his bee colonies were destroyed a few weeks ago when someone pushed over the hives which are kept near the site where the benches were destroyed.

Now Sergeant Steve Yeoman of Dorchester Police is appealing for witnesses.

He said: “There has been anti-social behaviour in Poundbury last weekend – a bench was torn up and set on fire and numerous cars were scratched.

“We are currently making inquiries and we will step up patrols and take pro-active measures to identify the offenders.”

Anyone who witnessed the arson attack or has any information about the vandalism is asked to call 01305 222222.