Five children arrested on suspicion of arson

Five boys aged between 11 and 14 have been arrested in connection with the fire

Five children have been arrested for allegedly setting fire to a derelict building.

The property on Victoria Road in Hartlepool went up in flames on Monday, shortly before 17:30 BST.

On Tuesday, three children were arrested in connection with the blaze and have now been bailed by Cleveland Police.

The force said two 13 year olds have also been arrested on suspicion of arson.

No one was injured in the fire but the building was severely damaged and further damage was caused to the premises next door.

Police officers used CCTV footage and a drone to trace the suspects.

Officers then located three boys in Hartlepool town centre, who were arrested.

Two 14 year old boys were arrested on suspicion of arson while an 11-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson and possessing an offensive weapon.

Cleveland Police is asking anyone with information about the fire to come forward.