Bilston building fire 'was arson'

A huge fire at some industrial units in the West Midlands was started deliberately, police say.

Five separate firms employing about 40 people were housed in the building in Millfields Road in Bilston. It has been completely destroyed.

Attempts to bring the fire under control were hampered by stocks of aerosols which exploded in the heat.

There were no reported injuries in the fire which was started on Monday night. The building will now be demolished.

'Small explosions'

Millfields Road and Ward Street remain closed, police said.

The fire spread very quickly and caused "significant, high-value damage" to the building, they added.

Police believe the arson attack could be linked to other offences

At its height, about 100 firefighters tackled the blaze.

Fire service group commander Mick Lomas said there were several small explosions due to a number of cylinders inside. Paints and detergents were kept in the building.

Det Insp Bob Bradford, from West Midlands Police, said: "This was a very serious arson attack which could potentially be linked to other offences.

"We are appealing for witnesses to come forward who may have seen anything suspicious on the night, or who may have seen what are believed to be two offenders running from the scene.

"Also, if they know anyone who has unexplained burn injuries, we would like to hear from them."