Police are appealing for witnesses after a deliberate fire was started on a wooden bridge in Bangor during the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 21 January.
North Wales Police said they were called shortly before 2am following reports that a fire had been ignited on a wooden bridge crossing the Afon Cegin, located within woodland behind Queens Avenue in the Maesgeirchen area.
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and successfully contained the blaze. Officers believe the fire was started deliberately, after an accelerant was poured onto the bridge and then ignited.
An investigation is now under way and police are urging anyone who may have seen the incident, or noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area overnight, to come forward.
Nigel Pickavance, Dwyrain Bangor City & County Councillor, said:
“Like many people, I was shocked and angered by what has happened to the bridge. However, I have also been genuinely overwhelmed by the response from the community. Since the fire, people have been getting in touch offering their help, skills and services – from builders and tradespeople to local volunteers willing to give their time.
“Along with Chris Oneal, we are now looking at a project to try to bring the bridge back. The level of support has been incredible, and it really shows how strongly local residents feel about this. We are arranging a meeting next Monday with people who have expressed an interest in helping, so we can discuss how we move forward and redevelop it together.
“If anyone would like to get involved or offer support, please contact either myself or Chris Oneal directly.”
Anyone with information about the fire that could assist police with the enquiries is asked to contact police via the force website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers, quoting reference number 26000055252.
Photos: Nigel Pickavance
