Arson investigation after abandoned building fire

Large plumes of smoke could be seen from across the city during the blaze in St Ann's

A fire in an abandoned building in Nottingham was deliberately started, an investigation has found.

Emergency crews were called to Pease Hill Centre - an old health service building - in Furze Gardens, St Ann's, at about 19:15 BST on Saturday, police said.

Reports that people might still be in the burning building led to a large police and fire service response, but nobody was found.

On Thursday, Nottinghamshire Police said following a joint investigation with the fire service, the blaze was being treated as an arson attack.

The former health centre, which is now surrounded by metal fencing

A total of six crews from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to bring the fire under control.

Police said the fire had caused extensive damage to parts of the already derelict building.

Sgt Nigel Malik said: "Lighting any fire is extremely reckless and has the potential to result in devastating consequences.

"Following an investigation, this incident is now being treated as an arson attack, and we are determined to track down those responsible."

The force asked anyone with information about the fire to come forward.