Boys arrested after fire at derelict school

A fire at a derelict school seen behind trees and bushesImage source, Supplied
Image caption,

The former Taxal Lodge School, which closed in 1998, had already been damaged by several fires

  • Published

Two 15-year-old boys have been arrested over a fire at a derelict school in Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the former Taxal Lodge School in Whaley Bridge at about 20:35 BST on Sunday.

Emergency services remain at the scene of the dilapidated building in Linglongs Road on Monday.

Derbyshire Police confirmed the boys were detained on suspicion of arson. They remain in custody.

Derelict former Taxal Lodge School in Whaley BridgeImage source, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service
Image caption,

In 2010, Derbyshire Police warned the old school was dangerous and contained "numerous hazards"

A joint police and fire investigation into the cause of the blaze is due to begin.

Police remain at the scene alongside fire crews, from Whaley Bridge and Chapel, with an aerial ladder platform and a water carrier.

A fire service spokesperson added: "Local residents are advised to please keep windows and doors closed if they see or smell smoke, and to please avoid the area."

Get in touch

Tell us which stories we should cover in Derby

Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, external, on X, external, or on Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk, external or via WhatsApp, external on 0808 100 2210.

Related topics