ANIMAL traps baited with bread and fruit have been found near a play area in Abbey Meads.

Police first heard about the illegal and dangerous devices on Shepperton Way in September 6. They seized the trap, carried out enquiries to find who had placed it there, and issued a warning on their Facebook page.

Officers found a second trap in the same area a short time later.

They have released a CCTV image of a man believed to be Chinese who they would like to speak to in relation to this.

PCSO Lee Hare, from Swindon Community Policing Team, said: “These are relatively small traps which have been baited with bread and fruit, and someone has attempted to camouflage it with some leaves in an attempt to hide it.

“Not only is there a safety risk, particularly given that it has been placed in close proximity to a children’s play area, but these traps are illegal if you do not have the relevant licence or permission from the landowner, and we know that permission has not been granted.”

If you are the person pictured or recognise him, please call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511.