A fire at a Hindu temple in west London is being treated a suspicious and police patrols in the area have been stepped up after traces of inflammable liquids were discovered at the scene.
Police said they are keeping an open mind as to whether the incident was race related.
Officers were called by the London Fire Brigade following reports of a fire at the Adhya Shakti Mataji Temple in Hillingdon in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The fire caused significant damage to a temporary building positioned close to the temple.
Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Richard Turner said: “We would appeal for anyone who was in the Cowley High Street area and may have seen anyone acting suspiciously to call us.
“We have spoken to a number of people in the area and continue to liaise closely with members of the Adhya Shakti Mataji Temple.
“We have already introduced additional patrols for the area and we would like to reassure the local community, and those who worship at the Temple that we are treating this case seriously.”
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
