Evidence from DNA testing has helped in the apprehension and eventual prosecution of an animal rights activist who destroyed property at Oxford University using home-made petrol bombs.

49-year old Mel Broughton was arrested when police recovered one of his unexploded arson devices at Templeton College in 2007. Previously, similar devices had been used in an arson attack at Queen's College sports pavilion in November 2006, causing nearly £14,000 of damage.

DNA tests were conducted on the device and over the period of several months, the police investigation led to Mr Broughton. One of the UK's most prominent and vocal animal rights activist, Broughton had previously been convicted of possession of an incendiary device in 1999.

Further DNA testing on materials found at Broughton's flat suggested that he had assembled the incendiary devices using sparklers, firelighters and petrol.

Although Broughton denied involvement in the incident, he was originally convicted of the offence by a jury in February 2009. He won the right to an appeal against his conviction exactly a year later.

However, the DNA testing evidence and his past record have resulted in his appeal failing, as yesterday a jury once more found him guilty of conspiracy to commit arson following a four week trial. Judge Patrick Eccles QC sentenced the Northampton resident to a 10 year prison sentence, with the two-and-a-half years that he has already spent in custody to be deducted from the sentence.