Anyone with information about suspected Minehead arson is urged to come forward

A fire in Minehead over the weekend is being treated as arson and police are continuing to investigate who caused it.

Fire crews attended the scene on Friday night
Author: Andrew KayPublished 1st Feb 2021

Crews were called on Friday night to the former school and a gym on Periton Road.

A spokesperson for the fire service later confirmed: "On arrival at the scene fire crews confirmed a derelict property well alight and the Incident Commander requested an additional three fire appliances which were mobilised from Porlock and Williton.

"The water carrier from Bridgwater and a Command Support Unit from Wiveliscombe was also mobilised.

"The incident involved a detached over two storey derelict building formerly used as classrooms and a gym.

"The fire was located on the ground floor within the former classrooms.

"Crews extinguished the fire using 2 main jets, 1 hosereel jet and thermal image cameras to check for hotspots.

"Approx 50% of the building was destroyed by fire.

"The cause of the fire was believed to be deliberate. Police also attended and are carrying out further investigations.

"Crews were able to stop the fire spreading to the main gym hall.

"The old School building has not been damaged by the fire.

"Anyone who may have further information relating to the incident are advised to contact the Police with details.

"Crews carried out a further inspection of the site for hot spots this morning and have now left the scene.