POLICE have appealed for witnesses following an arson attack on a derelict houseboat near Donnington Bridge.

Two youths were spotted leaving the area shortly after firefighters arrived to tackle the blaze at about 1.15pm on Monday.

Det Con Claire Routledge said: “One of them would have been wearing light-coloured clothing and the other would have been wearing dark-coloured clothing.

“They would have gone past two people who were walking along the towpath close to Donnington Bridge.

“We would like to speak to both the youths and the people walking along the towpath, who may have important information to offer and to rule them out of our enquiries.

“If there is anyone else who may have seen what happened, or who may have any information in relation to this incident, then we would also urge them to get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call police on 08458 505505.