Police Issue Fresh Appeal After Sweet Shop Set On Fire

Police want anyone with information to come forward

Published 7th Oct 2016

We are appealing for information after a suspected arson attack on a Rishton shop.

Between 6.30pm and 7.10pm on September 18, a fire started behind Sweet Memories in High Street.

The fire spread throughout the shop’s yard towards the rear of the building, causing £90,000 of damage to the property.

The blaze was quickly put out by firefighters but several adjoining buildings were affected and residents had to be evacuated.

Following investigation by Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue, the cause of the fire is believed to be suspicious in nature.

PC Matthew Caton, of Blackburn Police, said: “We are continuing to investigate the circumstances of a fire in Rishton which left a shop badly damaged.

“At this time the cause of the fire is believed to be suspicious in nature and we are keen for anyone with information to come forward.

“If you saw anyone or anything unusual in the area before the fire started, please contact us.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting crime reference ED1614318.

Alternatively, please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.