POLICE have stepped up their search for the petrol bomber who set an ice cream van alight in Southampton's inner city.

The A-reg Bedford was severely damaged in the blaze in Derby Road, Newtown, which happened at about 10.20pm on Wednesday.

Distraught owner Zulfiqar Ali, 66, says he believes the fire was part of a mystery vendetta against him that began two years ago.

He claims he was the victim of an unprovoked attack outside his home in 2000 and then had the front and back windows on the van smashed last summer.

This week's blaze burnt the dashboard and door panel and left the rest of the vehicle smoke damaged.

Scenes of crime officers are examining the van and a beer bottle found inside, which had contained petrol.

DS Lucy Hutson said: "Obviously we are still following up enquiries and appealing for anyone who was in the area during that evening to come forward.

"The investigation is still on-going."

Anyone with information should telephone Southampton central police station on 0845 045 45 45.