UK RIOTS: Winsford man charged after school bus set on fire

Cheshire Police have confirmed that four people have been charged in connection with the recent national riots.

Among them is 24-year-old Joshua Sigley, of St Chads Field, who has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and three counts of arson.

This follows a spate of incidents in Winsford on Sunday (August 4), which saw a school bus, telegraph poles and rubbish bins set on fire.

A 30-year-old man was also arrested and has been released on bail.

Meanwhile, Sigley is due to appear at Chester Magistrates later today (August 9).

Despite this, police say there has been no violent disorder in the county and that residents should not be worried if they notice an increased police presence.

Chief Superintendent Alison Ross said: “Today and as we head into the weekend we will continue to have additional patrols out across the county to provide reassurance to residents.

“You might also see officers from other police forces - there's no need to worry, this is part of the national response to the ongoing disorder nationally.

“There's also nothing to suggest serious disorder is currently planned in our county and we'll continue to monitor social media for that.

“Don't panic with regards to rumours you might see or worry about contacting us to let us know - if you can see it, we'll already have seen it, will risk assess it and if needed, act upon it.”

A bus was set on fire during a spate of incidents in Winsford (Image: Supplied)

She added: “We'd also ask that you don't share any malicious or inaccurate information that you might see. These messages have only been posted to create fear, hate and disorder in our communities.

“As we move forward, we will continue to have extensive resources in place to keep our communities safe and ensure that swift and robust action is taken against all those who are found to have broken the law.”

Three other people have also been charged today.

Nigel Dodd, 65 of Cameron Avenue in Shavington, faces a charge of racially aggravated harassment with intent to cause alarm or distress, following an incident in Nantwich on August 7.

Warrington resident Daniel Billing, of Plumtree Avenue, has been charged with using threatening and abusive language and possession of a class B drug (cannabis), following an incident in the 45-year-old’s hometown on August 7.

Finally, Zoe Houghton, 35 and of St Marks Road, Chester, was charged with using threatening and abusive language, and two counts of misuse of the 999 service, following incidents in Chester on August 7.