Crews tackle arson attack at derelict pub

The fire at a former pub was started deliberately, the fire service said

Fire officers have tackled a blaze in a derelict building which had been started deliberately, a fire service said.

Essex County Fire and Rescue was called to Daiglen Drive, South Ockendon, Essex, at 01:20 GMT on Wednesday, where it found a boarded-up two-storey pub about 60% alight.

Watch manager Gary Bannister said: "Crews fought the fire from the outside, due to the condition of the building and the fact there was no risk to other properties."

The fire was extinguished by 03:20 and its cause was recorded as deliberate, the fire service said, adding Essex Police had been informed.