Detectives are appealing for information following a large fire at a builders’ merchants in Leeds.
The fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday 15 July at Jewson, on Lake Terrace, Hunslet.
A number of residents were temporarily evacuated from their homes nearby while firefighters tackled the blaze.
Fire investigators have confirmed the fire had been started deliberately with a number of separate seats of fire and the incident is being treated as arson. Damage was also caused to the neighbouring Middleton Railway’s premises.
Detective Inspector James Entwistle, of Leeds District CID, said: “We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident and would like to hear from anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area in the time leading up to it.
“This has been a very significant fire that has caused an enormous amount of damage at the scene and we are treating it very seriously.
“Checks on CCTV show a male, possibly with others, lighting a small self-contained fire next to the nearby railway line that runs along the perimeter fence prior to the incident. We are keen to identify that person either as a potential suspect or a witness if they can come forward and explain why they were there and what they were doing.
“We have also had reports of a number of youths in the area around the time of the fire and we are keen to hear from anyone who has seen them or who has any information that could assist in identifying who was involved in starting this fire.”
£8.5m Plan Approved to Transform Blackburn Church into Creative Hub
£1.9m Investment Plan for Pools, Museums and Family Hubs
Six Charged After County Lines Raids in Calderdale and Bradford
Tribute paid to hospital radio legend Patrick Murphy
Bradford nurseries recognised with elite ‘900 Club’ award
Muslim Aid Launches Winter Support for Vulnerable Communities
30 Years of Clean-Ups: Britain’s Largest Muslim Youth Group Takes to the Streets on New Year’s Day
The Golden Era
Legal Show
Bhangra Nights
Remix Saturdays