Distraught users of a Hindu temple have spoke of their upset after yobs set fire to a "beautiful" sacred wooden chariot last night.

Police confirmed four men were spotted on CCTV pouring petrol onto the £100,000 chariot, which is kept in the car park behind the Sivayogam London Muthumari Amman Kovil temple in Hebdon Road.

Fire fighters put out the blaze just before midnight, after a letting agency next door called the emergency services.

One of the suspects is understood to have been injured during the fire, thought to have taken place at 11pm last night, after setting themselves alight.

Nagendran Seevaradnam, 74, founder and spiritual leader of the temple said: "It is a very significant item to a Hindu Temple, it is a beautiful chariot.

"Everybody is crying. I felt they poured petrol on me."

Mr Seevaradnam believes the fire signifies a bad omen.

The 11-year-old chariot is used once a year for the National Hindu Student's Forum (NHSF) bank holiday Monday celebrations on August 28.

It can be seen once a year at celebrations in Tooting High Street, London Road and Figges Marsh.

Craftsman Dr Jeyakantham Saramanamuththu spent months hand-carving the chariot, who has also his work displayed in Washington.

It costs £100,000 to replace and Hindu's believe it has the power to move a deity.

A spokesperson for Wandsworth police said: "Police are keeping an open mind as to the motive of the suspects. Enquiries are continuing."

Anyone who has information about the incident should call the Investigation Team on 020 8247 8482, or alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.