Arson probe launched after pub fire

The fire service said the blaze was started on the first floor and spread to the roof

A fire at an abandoned pub in Nottingham is being investigated as arson.

Firefighters were called to The Bakersfield - known locally as the Tally Ho - in Oakdale Road at 21:03 BST on Wednesday.

Nottinghamshire Police said no-one was believed to have been injured in the fire.

Joint police and fire service investigations are now under way, the force added.

Residents in the area who could smell or see smoke were asked by the fire service to keep doors and windows closed

Det Sgt Chris Mavers said: "Our investigations are at an early stage but initial indications suggest this fire was started deliberately.

"Arson is an extremely serious offence that can lead to tragic consequences, so we will be working hard to find out who is responsible."

Richard Booth, a station manager with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, said the fire was started on the first floor of the building and spread to the roof.

"The disused pub has been left severely fire-damaged and may now be structurally unsafe, so we ask that the public stay away from the site for their safety," he added.

"We will continue to work closely with our Nottinghamshire Police colleagues to ensure this incident is resolved."

The building had previously been earmarked for demolition, with Nottingham City Council's planning committee due to decide whether homes can be built there on Wednesday.