Derelict building fire was started deliberately

A fire in a derelict commercial building in Stoke-on-Trent was started deliberately, an investigation has revealed.

Crews were alerted to the fire on Paxton Street in Hanley at around 6am yesterday (15 October).

At its height, seven fire crews attended the scene along with two aerial ladder platforms.

Thankfully, no one was reported injured, though nearby residents were advised to close their windows and doors against the smoke in the area.

Firefighters were dampening down hotspots at the scene at around 4pm and an investigation began.

The fire is believed to have been set deliberately and crews remain at the scene today to continue inquiries with colleagues from Staffordshire Police.