A FIRE has caused thousands of pounds of damage at the site of Redditch's new mosque.

The blaze, which is believed to have started shortly before 3am on Sunday, caused about £3,000 damage to two mobile units at the Jinnah Road site. No one was hurt.

Det Sgt Gerry Smith, of Redditch Police, said: "We believe this fire was started deliberately and as part of our investigation, we are appealing for anyone with information to call us as soon as they can.

"It's vital we identify those responsible, especially as a security guard sometimes sleeps in one of these mobile units so the incident had the potential for far more serious consequences.

"We're appealing to anyone who saw any activity in this area late on Saturday night or in the early hours of Sunday to get in touch.

"We've already spoken to some witnesses who report seeing a group of males and females drinking cans near the perimeter fence in Tunnel Drive and we'd appeal to the group to come forward.

"Four people were also seen walking along Marsden Road just after 3am on Sunday morning and again we'd appeal for them to come forward as they may have important information to help progress our inquiries."

Police are not treating the incident as racially motivated at this time.

Anyone with information should call Redditch police on 08457 444 888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.