Police today renewed an appeal for help to trace a man who witnessed an arson in Banbury six months ago.

Shortly before 3am on April 11, officers were alerted to a fire in the wheelie bins near to the Banbury Trade and Labour Club in West Bar Street.

Later that day, officers attended the club to review CCTV from the incident, and were informed that someone had also pushed lit newspaper through the club’s letterbox causing damage to the floor inside.

Det Con Joe Stevenson said: “Officers who first attended the incident spoke with a member of public who gave a description of the person they saw starting the fire.

“This man disappeared from the scene, and we believe what he witnessed is vital to our investigation.

“He is described as 6ft and was wearing a blue hooded top. If you were this man, or you know who this man is, I would urge you to come forward and speak with us.”

Anyone with information should contact Det Con Stevenson via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505. Alternatively, you can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.