Arrests as youths 'climb on roof' of former store

A cordon was put in place around the building

Six boys have been arrested after police responded to reports of trespassers gaining entry to a derelict building.

Nottinghamshire Police said officers were called to the former Debenhams in Long Row, off Old Market Square, at about 14:00 BST on Thursday.

A force spokesman said tiles "and other projectiles were thrown from the roof", and a cordon was put in place but had since been removed.

The boys - who are aged between 12 and 14 - have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and public nuisance.

Emergency vehicles had lined up along the tram tracks to Old Market Square

The store, which has Grade II listed status, closed its doors in May 2021, as part of the wider closure of all Debenhams stores.

Police confirmed there have been no reports of any injuries, and appealed for witnesses to get in touch.

"Derelict buildings like this pose a number of dangers and officers are working hard to ensure the incident is resolved safely," said Ch Insp Jon Hewitt.

"Anyone involved can expect to be identified, and this sort of behaviour will always receive a robust response from the force."

The building on the corner of Long Row and Market Street was started as a single draper's shop in 1846