Police have appealed to the public after a spate of vandalism and arson in the Fakenham area, hoping for more reports and people to “get up and do something about it”.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Arson damage on the path behind Canler and Son, Highfield Road PICTURE: Matt FarmerArson damage on the path behind Canler and Son, Highfield Road PICTURE: Matt Farmer (Image: Archant)

Fires were intentionally started in Aldiss Park several times over recent weeks and on a path close to Highfield Road.

Speaking to Fakenham Town Council, PC Richard Dawson said: "We believe the burning on the path off Highfield Road to be kids making a den which then get out of control. The fires in Aldiss Park, where large things were burned, is something very different."

Elsewhere, residents near Millenium Park on Queens Road have spoken about vandalism and littering, but police say they need more reports to act on it more effectively.

Council groundskeepers frequently clear several bags of litter from hedgerows in the park. PC Dawson said: "We've had complaints of teenagers being loud, and lighting campfires in the park while trying to stay warm.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The previously defaced plaque at Three Brick Arches, edited to obscure obscenities PICTURE: Matthew FarmerThe previously defaced plaque at Three Brick Arches, edited to obscure obscenities PICTURE: Matthew Farmer (Image: Archant)

"We've also had people sleeping on the street, so it's of concern why parents don't know. It has been difficult to do something about these incidents because of the lack of reports, so we need people to make sure they report these incidents when they see them."

The town's police have put a 'problem plan' in place for the parks and at Three Brick Arches, the popular walking spot outside town which was recently defaced. Dog walkers there have said it is not unusual for people to light bonfires on the bridge there.

The plan will mean more foot patrols in the three areas, as four special constables join the Fakenham service next month. The council and PC Dawson encouraged more people to join as special officers, with councillors saying: "Rather than being a keyboard warrior, get up and do something about it".

PC Dawson encouraged people to voice their concerns at the next Safer Neighbourhood Action Panel, at 6.30pm on Wednesday September 11.

People can ring 101 or report crimes anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Emails to Fakenham police can be sent to SNTFakenham@norfolk.pnn.police.uk, and their reception is open 1pm - 3pm on Thursdays.