Four cars have been destroyed and several more damaged by a “serial arsonist” in Powys The spate of arson attacks in Rhayader is now being investigated by police.They believe the incidents could be linked.

Sian George, Dyfed-Powys Police communications officer, said the fires which happened over the weekend, caused serious damage, but no-one had been injured.

She said three cars in the town’s Smithfield car park were set alight using petrol on Friday at about 2am.

“Three other cars were also damaged as a result of this attack on Friday,” she said.

Ms George said that another car had also been set alight in the town’s Maes Y Brennin area yesterday, at 12.30am.

She said: “The offender who we believe is a serial arsonist was seen by witnesses running off into Dark Lane, after he set fire to the car in the Maes y Brennin area.

“He was described as being aged between 15 and 20, with blond hair, and wearing blue jeans and a T-shirt. He is also described as being either bare-footed at the time of the incident or had white socks or trainers on.”

She urged residents in Rhayader to be extra vigilant and keep a close eye in their cars.

“This is a very serious incident and we are urging residents to be on the lookout for anyone who they think might be suspicious,” she said.

“We want the culprits to be caught as soon as possible because these attacks could one day lead to someone being seriously injured.”

Anyone with information about the arson attacks is asked to call Dyfed-Powys Police on 08453 302000.