Police investigating suspected arson on school grounds in St Austell
A large shed containing PE equipment was found alight over the weekend
Last updated 9th May 2022
Police are investigating a fire on school grounds in St Austell which is believed to be arson.
Fire engines from the town, Mevagissey and Fowey were all called to Tregonissey Road on Saturday night (7th May).
A large shed was found to be alight and crews used a hose reel jet to put the blaze out.
It is understood the building at Poltair Community School, which was destroyed by the fire, was used to store sports equipment.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "Police are investigating a suspected case of arson following a fire at Poltair Community School and Sports College in St Austell that took place between 7:30-8:30pm on Saturday 7th May.
"Officers were called by the fire service who were at the scene tackling the fire in an outbuilding on the Astro turf pitch.
"The building, which contained PE equipment, was destroyed.
"The fire is believed to have been started deliberately."
In a statement, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire appliances from St Austell, Mevagissey and Fowey are currently using breathing apparatus and hose reels on a large shed fire measuring approximately 10 x 5 meters.
"20:57 The fire is now extinguished, firefighters are using a hose reel to damp down and check for hot spots.
"The cause is believed to be arson and police are also on scene."
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101@dc.police.uk or telephone 101, quoting crime reference CR/038997/22.