Arsonists torched derelict pub (From St Helens Star)

Arsonists torched derelict pub the Saracen's head in Clinkham Wood

2:04pm Wednesday 29th August 2012 in News

FIRE investigators have confirmed that a fire at a derelict pub, which caused extensive damage, was an arson attack.

Firefighters were called to the Saracen’s Head in Clinkham Wood after neighbours raised the alarm.

Flames and smoke billowed out of the building as police turned back vehicles and erected a cordon.

The fire was reported at around 3.10pm on Tuesday (August 28) and was well alight by the time firefighters arrived.

Elaine Gauld, who lives close by said: “Police came round and told everyone to stay indoors and close the window because of the smoke.

“The pensioners’ bungalows were worse because you couldn’t see the top of the road. The buses and cars had to be turned back.”

A police spokesperson said: “The indications are that it was deliberately started. The owner has been contacted and we have had witnesses come forward to provide information.”

Anyone who saw any suspicious activity around that time is asked to call Merseyside Police’s non-emergency number 101.