A popular footbridge in Bangor has been closed temporarily after it was targeted by arsonists.

Police are still investigating the deliberate fire on the wooden bridge linking Lôn Las Ogwen and Maesgeirchen in the early hours of last Wednesday.

Cyngor Gwynedd said a significant section of the bridge was burnt and it's been shut because of safety concerns about the structure.

Cllr Craig ab Iago, cabinet member for the environment, said: "This footbridge in Bangor is hugely popular with local residents and offers the opportunity to enjoy the environment and nature on the outskirts of the city."

"It’s therefore very worrying that the structure has had to be closed following this fire, and it is heartbreaking to see the damage that has been caused not only to the bridge but also to mature trees and the pollution to the local environment in general as a result of the fire."

"As well as the inconvenience of having to close the bridge, there will be significant costs for the council if we’re able to carry out repairs to the structure – at a time when funding is already scarce, this is an unnecessary cost."

"It is disappointing that the behaviour of a minority is spoiling people's enjoyment of this footbridge which is an important link for local people."

"We urge those responsible to respect public property and to think about the impact of their behaviour on the local community, and for anyone with information about the matter to contact North Wales Police."

Emergency services were called to the Afon Cegin at just before 2am on Wednesday, where the bridge had been set alight in the woodland area behind Queens Avenue.

It's believed the fire was started by accelerant being poured onto the bridge before it was ignited.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area should contact North Wales Police on 101 or via the live web chat, quoting reference no. 26000055252.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.