Man admits starting fire at Lincoln County Hospital

A man's admitted starting a fire that led to the closure of Lincoln County Hospital's A & E Department.

56-year-old John Gillion Watson from Vicarage Court, Sleaford, pleaded guilty to a charge of arson - being reckless to as to whether life was endangered back in March 29th last year.

The Unit had to be evacuated, no one was injured - although ambulances had to be diverted elsewhere.

Watson had previously pleaded not guilty to a more serious charge of arson with intent to endanger life on the same date.

Luke Chisnell, prosecuting, said Watson's plea was acceptable and the Crown Prosecution Service would not seek a trial on the charge of intending to endanger life.

Around £180,000 pounds worth of damage was caused to Lincoln County Hospital.

Watson was remanded in custody and will be sentenced in March.

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