Appeal for information following suspected arson in Hartford

Police are appealing for witnesses and video footage following a suspected arson at a café near Northwich.

Shortly after 1.30am on Saturday 28 January, police were called to reports of a fire at Hartford picnic area on the A556, Northwich Bypass. 

Officers attended the scene and found a fire at the rear of a portacabin at the site. 

The fire also spread to the building, causing damage to the café that was operating from the site. 

The incident is currently being treated as suspicious and as part of the investigation officers are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Rob Astbury, of Northwich CID, said: “Enquiries in relation to this incident are in the early stages and we are doing all we can to establish exactly what took place. 

“As part of our investigation we’re keen to hear from anyone who in the area between 1am and 1.30am on Saturday and believes they may have seen anything suspicious. 

“I’m also keen to hear from the occupants of an old style Landrover, which was seen in the area at the time of the incident.

“The same goes for anyone with any dashcam footage of any vehicles entering or leaving the site.

“I’d urge anyone with any information in relation to the incident to contact the team here at Northwich on 101, or online at:

http://www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us

...quoting IML 1466160.

“Alternatively, if you don’t want to speak to us directly, information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on:

0800 555 111