POLICE have launched an investigation after five arson incidents.

Officers are linking the incidents which occurred in south Bitterne in the early hours of this morning.

Four cars were set alight and damage caused to a property sometime between 12.30 and 2.30am.

No-one was injured as a result of the incidents.

A Renault Megane Scenic parked on a driveway in Beechwood Gardens was set alight causing some damage to the house and affecting the power supply to the property.

A Citroen Picasso parked on a driveway in Bullar Road was burnt out.

A Ford Transit van parked in Nomad Close was set alight.

A Vauxhall Movano van parked in Macnaghten Road was set fire to, this van contained a kitchen worth £7,000.

In Vanguard Road an extractor fan set in a window pane was set on fire.

Detective Inspector Phil Scrase said: “These incidents caused considerable damage to property, tied up emergency services for hours and most seriously could have injured or killed someone. We are appealing to anyone in the Bitterne area who may be able to help us identify who is responsible to contact us.

“Did you notice any suspicious activity, did a person you live with leave the house in the early hours of this morning?”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.