DETECTIVES have been scanning CCTV cameras as they hunt a devastating arson attack at an amateur rugby club which caused an estimated £35,000 worth of damage.

As the Star reported last week, firefighters tackled the blaze at Blackbrook ARLFC on Boardmans Lane in the early hours of Sunday, August 31.

The attack damaged a large supporters’ shelter which was close to being completed. The fire service said the blaze was minutes from spreading to the clubhouse.

Blackbrook’s chairman Gary Swift described the arson attack as “heartbreaking”. He said that the shelter was the culmination of many hours work by volunteers who worked on the shelter for the past few months.

Police arecontinuing to study CCTV from the area to identify the culprits.

Detective Sergeant Jackie Guinness from St Helens CID said: “The fire caused considerable damage to buildings at the club and has destroyed a huge amount of hard work which has been put into the site by members.

“We are determined to bring those responsible to justice and I would appeal to anyone who has information which could help with our investigation to come forward.”

Call police on 101 quoting reference 0514162409 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.