An intense fire in a Cheltenham park, believed to be a deliberate act of arson, was caught on camera by comedian and writer Dom Joly, sparking concern and an ongoing police investigation.
The incident occurred around 8:20 pm on Thursday, March 19, when emergency services were alerted to a tent ablaze at Clarence Square. Joly, who resides in Cheltenham, posted a video showing towering flames engulfing a tent beneath a large tree. Describing the event as a “crazy night,” he expressed shock and anger, speculating that petrol had been poured on the tent before it was set alight.
“What kind of person are you when you’re setting fire to homeless people’s tents?” Joly questioned in the footage, condemning the act. Later, he humorously declared he was leaving “violent dangerous Cheltenham” to head to London.
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Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service responded swiftly, dispatching a fire engine that extinguished the blaze by 9:08 pm. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately started and are actively investigating the case.
Gloucestershire Police have appealed to the public for information, asking anyone who witnessed the event or has relevant details to come forward by referencing incident number 468 of March 19 in their report.