Arsonists strike at old Longton children's home

FIREFIGHTERS called to deal with a blaze deliberately started in a derelict building have urged parents to keep a closer eye on their children.

Officers from Staffordshire Fire Service said they had reason to believe a group of youngsters had been in the former children's home when the blaze broke out.

Crews were called to the boarded-up building in Wood Street, Longton, at about 6.30pm yesterday.

Two fire engines from Longton Fire Station were called the scene before commanding officers requested two further crews.

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Longton station manager, Mick Daniels, said arson has become a problem in the Wood Street area.

In May, Longton town centre was brought to a standstill after a blaze was started at a disused building in Caroline Street.

It followed a blaze at the former Premier Hair & Beauty premises in Market Street.

Mr Daniels said last night: "We had to call in two extra appliances from Newcastle and Hanley that could have been used elsewhere.

"The fire has been confined to a small area of the building, but as it is derelict it is extremely hazardous for our officers to enter and control the flames.

"There was a large amount of smoke so we requested extra breathing apparatus.

"We are disappointed to report the fire was started deliberately.

"We have been called to this area several times in the past because of similar deliberately started fires, and the fire officers have to battle to keep the area under control.

"I would ask that parents and guardians ensure they know what their children are up to in the evenings as we could put the appliances to better use."

The building in Wood Street is located directly behind The Vine pub.

Landlord Mike Whitbourne said his customers noticed the flames and alerted the fire service.

He sad: "This is at least the fifth fire I've seen there in five years.

"The building has been derelict for too long, it's become a target for young people and drug-users.

"In my opinion, they need to knock the building down or turn it into something else.

"The flashing lights outside the pub aren't great for business and people say there are syringes lying around there."

Kim Dalagarnm, aged 42, from Meir, said: "The building has been a problem for ages. There's always something going on there.

"Kids start fires in the empty buildings and then the fire services have to come and put them out.

"It's a huge waste of resources. The landlord of The Vine lives alone above the pub. If a fire starts in the building next door, it's very dangerous for him and his business."

Jason Hallam, aged 41, also of Meir, said: "The solution is either to revitalise the empty buildings around here and put them to good use, or to knock them down."