A Vauxhall Combi van and a Toyota Yaris were severely damaged at different locations in the street shortly after 4am on February 27.

Police Constable Diane Langford, the investigating officer, said a young man was seen in the Pyms Road area between 3.45am and 4am. “I would ask him to come forward as he may have seen something which could assist our inquiries.”

He was described as white, in his early 20s, tall, of average build, with short brown mousy hair about one a centimetre in length all over and wearing dark tracksuit bottoms and a long-sleeved dark top, possibly a jumper.

PC Langford also appealed for information from anyone else who might be able to help. The number to call is Wem police station on 0300-333-3000, or the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800-555-111.

Police were initially notified by the fire service about the incidents. A third vehicle was also damaged by heat from one of the fires.