A TEENAGER has been arrested after two rough sleepers’ bedding was allegedly set alight while they slept.

Police have started a “full investigation” after bedding was reportedly set alight in Pitwines, Poole.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “We were called at 1.55am on Wednesday, July 6, to reports that bedding belonging to two rough sleepers had been set alight while they slept in the doorway of Sainsbury’s in Pitwines, Poole.

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“Thankfully both victims, a man and woman, sustained only very minor injuries.

“A full investigation is underway, led by detectives from Bournemouth CID.

“A 17-year-old local male has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out patrols in the area and have been liaising with the local authority following this incident.”

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Kirsten Thomson, south west frontline sales and operations manager for Big Issue Group, said: “This is horrific news, it’s beyond belief that any human being could treat another human being in this way.

"Our thoughts are with the two people who were targeted in this awful attack – no one should have to go through what you went through.  

“It is vital more is done to provide support to those sleeping rough. Critically, more must be done to help people off of the streets so no one is forced to suffer anything like this again.”