Investigation launched into bowling pavilion fire

Firefighters arrived shortly after 19:00 GMT on Thursday to deal with the blaze

An investigation has been launched into a fire at a former community and bowling pavilion in Stoke-on-Trent.

Emergency services were called to the incident on Werrington Road in Bucknall shortly after 19:00 GMT on Thursday.

Police said a group of about six people were seen leaving the area on foot at the time of the fire, which they said caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Officers searched the area but did not find anyone, they said.

They added that they did not believe anyone was inside the building at the time and nobody had been reported injured.

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact Staffordshire Police.

The blaze has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage, police say