Arrest made after man seen putting bleach on the ground at a nature reserve in Gloucester

A man was arrested following reports that bleach was poured on the ground in a nature reserve in Gloucester and officers are appealing for witnesses as part of their investigation.

Shortly after 11.45am on Monday (20 April), an off-duty police officer came across a man who was spreading bleach on the ground in Kingsway Orchard, off Lyneham Drive, and walking around with loaves of bread.

It is understood that dogs had recently become unwell after eating food left on the ground in the area, and it is unknown if this was the cause.

A man aged in his 30s and who lives in Gloucester was arrested on suspicion of administering a poisonous substance to a protected animal in connection with the incident.

He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Officers are now keen to hear from anyone who has witnessed similar activity in the area recently or who has information which could assist with the investigation.

They would also like to hear from anyone who has CCTV or mobile phone footage which may be relevant.

Anyone with footage or information is asked to contact police online by using the following form and quoting incident 147 of 20 April: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/