Local MP Sadiq Khan is urging witnesses to come forward who may have seen arsonists set fire to a Hindu chariot.

The chariot which is kept in the car park behind the Sivayogam London Muthumari Amman Kovil temple in Hebdon Road, Tooting, was set on fire by yobs on Wednesday evening.

Police have launched an investigation after four men were spotted on CCTV pouring petrol onto the £100,000 chariot.

Mr Khan said: "This is truly terrible news. The Chariot festival is a popular and well loved fixture in the Tooting calender.

"Sight of the Chariots being carried down the high street is a spectacle all Tooting residents know and love.

"If anybody has seen anything or know anybody who may have something to do with this, I urge them to come forward and speak to the police."

Yesterday worshippers at the temple spoke of their distraught after the chariot was left damaged.

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."

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

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 can call the Investigation Team on 020 8247 8482, or alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.