Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward after a rainbow banner outside a school in Dorchester was damaged.

At around 8.30pm on Sunday, March 7 it was discovered that a plastic rainbow banner that was on the front gate of The Prince of Wales School on Maiden Castle Road had been set alight.

Following enquiries, it was reported that a group of young people were seen earlier in the evening approaching the school while carrying a lighter.

Neighbourhood Inspector Darren Stanton, of Dorchester Police, said: "This banner was being displayed as a thank you to the NHS during the pandemic and it is very upsetting that it has now been damaged.

"I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and witnessed what happened to please get in touch.

"I would be really keen to hear from any local residents or motorists who may have captured relevant footage on either home CCTV systems or dashcams.

"Finally, if you know who was responsible for this incident or have any information that may assist us, please get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email [email protected] or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55210037308.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call 0800 555 111.