Third arson arrest after fire at seaside hotel

Three men have so far been arrested on suspicion of arson since a string of fires at the Ocean Hotel in Sandown

Officers have arrested a third man following a series of fires at a derelict seafront hotel.

Firefighters were called to reports of fires at the Ocean Hotel in Sandown on the Isle of Wight on 5 and 8 August.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said it had arrested a 20-year-old man from Newport on suspicion of arson.

Officers previously arrested an 18-year-old man and a 20-year-old man from Sandown, also on suspicion of arson.

Sgt Sharland said these men had both since been released on conditional bail, with the 18-year-old being released until 8 November and the 20-year-old until 3 December.

The neighbourhood policing team officer thanked members of the public for their support in a statement on social media.

They added: "Our investigation into these arson incidents continues, and the South Wight Neighbourhoods Policing Team are following up every line of enquiry.

"Police also continue to patrol the area, and are working with local partners to resolve issues regarding the site, its security and the associated anti-social behaviour and criminality."