Sheffield Cathedral damaged in suspected 'arson attack'

The charity said it was hoping to resume work as soon as possible

Sheffield Cathedral has been damaged in a suspected arson attack.

The fire broke out on Thursday night in a part of the building used by the Cathedral Archer Project homelessness charity.

A cathedral spokesperson said no-one was hurt and the extent of the damage was not yet known although it is thought a window was broken to gain entry.

A 40-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of arson and burglary.

• Latest news and stories from Yorkshire

The charity said it was a "huge blow" because it delivers meals to people in need.

It said in the current pandemic it had been delivering more than 180 meals daily.

Damage was caused to a building used by a charity which delivers meals to people in need

It is believed a window was broken to get into the building

The charity said it was hoping to resume work "as soon as is safe and possible to do so".

The Very Reverend Peter Bradley, Dean of Sheffield Cathedral, said: "It really feels like an attack on some of the poorest people in our community.

"The Archer project is open every day and we are going to try and keep it open from next week. It has never been more important at helping people get through this crisis."

More than £200 has so far been donated by people to help the centre get back up and running.