A MOTORCYCLE which caught fire in Osney Island's West Street yesterday may have been the result of arson, police have said.

Resident Max Mulvany, 25, an artist who lives opposite the scene in Swan Street, was at home and awake at the time, and said he saw the motorcycle in "a big blaze".

The fire spread to another motorcycle parked nearby.

Mr Mulvany, who called the fire service, said: "There were people moving their cars and some throwing water in it."

Residents moved their cars out of the neighbouring parking bays just in time before the first motorcycle exploded, Mr Mulvany added.

Thames Valley Police spokeswoman Connie Primmer said: "We are investigating two suspected cases of arson which took place in West Court, West Street in the early hours of 26 November and involved two motorcycles.

"Fire informed us and we are now investigating."