Police in Westminster have released CCTV footage of a man they want to speak to in connection with an investigation where a man burned a British Union flag, which police say caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

On November 22 last year, police were called at around 9am to reports of an arson in The Arches Shopping Centre off Villiers Street in Westminster, close to Charing Cross Railway Station.

CCTV overlooking The Arches caught the moment a suspect walked up to a closed market stall and set alight a British Union flag.

Minutes later, police say the fire quickly spread causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

A nearby building's fire alarm system is believed to have detected the smoke and set off its sprinklers causing water damage to seven floors.

Police wish to talk to this man in relation to the flag burning incident
Police wish to talk to this man in relation to the flag burning incident

The suspect is described by police as a white man, aged in his 20s, of medium build and clean shaved.

He was seen wearing an ‘LA Raiders’ baseball cap, blue jeans, a grey hooded top and black body warmer.

Police say they are keen to hear from anyone who may recognise or witness the man shown on CCTV.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 196481 Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.