POLICE have released CCTV images of a man, in connection with the spate of Mini Cooper arsons attacks across Southampton.

Hampshire police are investigating a series of arsons where soft-top Mini Coopers have been set alight.

They have now released an image of the man they wish to speak to.

Nine Mini’s have been set alight in the city since November 21.

The man police want to track down is captured on CCTV footage just before 10pm on December 3 on Deacon Road.

He is seen to pull up and get out of a silver or light-coloured Peugeot 307 estate vehicle.

Minutes later, an out-of-shot parked Mini catches fire.

Police believe the Peugeot is a model made between 2002 and 2007.

Detective inspector Steve Spencer, said: “We are working really hard to identify this person.

“Arson has a huge effect on the local community, it destroys property but more importantly it puts people’s lives at risk.

“Do you know anyone who is often out throughout the night and are known to drive a silver or light coloured Peugeot 307 estate car?

“If you think you know this person, please get in touch by calling 101 and quoting 44180463478.

“Alternatively, call Crimestoppers and leave information anonymously.”

The cars have been targeted in Randolph Street, Hanley Road, Janson Road, Hinkler Road, Deacon Road, Downside Avenue, South East Road, River Walk, and the most recent incident occurred on Belmont Road on January 5.

Police have also left advice for owners of the soft-top Mini’s.

They have advised them to install CCTV that overlooks the vehicle, as well as fitting an alarm to the vehicle, with warning signs that alert people that an alarm is fitted.

They have also advised the owners to alert their neighbours, and ask them to be extra vigilant to anyone who may be paying attention to te vehicles.

Owners are also warned to call 999 immediately if their vehicle is targeted.

Each vehicle had a canvas top, which was cut before flammable material was put inside and set alight.

Some cars have been completely burnt out and others suffered minor damage.

In August, police launched an investigation following a spate of arsons in the city, linking 13 different incidents.

Several of the arsons, many of them motorhomes in Bitterne, Peartree and Woolston, caused considerable loss of property, according to police, who later released CCTV.