ARSONISTS wrecked a police van while officers carried out inquiries in Poole.

The blaze reduced the van to "a shell" and now an urgent appeal has been launched for information about the offenders.

Firefighters were called to Lagland Street just after 9.30pm on Sunday when passers-by saw the van on fire.

They discovered it had been targeted while Dorset Police officers were involved in routine inquiries at a nearby address.

"The fire appears to have been started deliberately and we are very keen to hear from anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time," said a police spokesman.

Police ruled out suggestions that they may have been lured to the area by the arsonists and said: "We were not there as the result of a malicious call."

Damage is described as extensive and is likely to cost several thousands of pounds to put right, said the spokesman, who added: "It is just a shell." The van was recovered from the scene and has been taken to a secure site for assessment and repairs.

The incident took place near the Cockleshell pub and officers hope customers may have seen something which may help their inquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to call Dorset Police on 01202 222222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111. Mobile phone tariffs may apply.