Police Investigate Arson In Whitchurch, Shropshire

Police are treating a fire in a block of flats at Whitchurch early today as arson.

Officers are appealing for information after the fire service investigation team confirmed the blaze was deliberately started.

The fire involved a quantity of rubbish in the communal landing area of the flats in Castle Court. The rubbish, which has been on the landing for several weeks, was set alight between 3.30am and 4am today.

A police spokesperson said a resident was alerted by a noise and on checking, discovered the rubbish well alight.

He alerted other residents and called Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

"Fortunately, no-one was hurt in this incident. However, it could have resulted in residents being trapped or overcome by fumes," said the police spokesperson. "The fire is being treated as arson and we would welcome any information which might assist the investigation."

Information should be forwarded to Whitchurch police station on 0300 333 3000 or to the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.

Issued: Thursday 26 August 2010