Man arrested over derelict building fire

A man has been arrested in relation to a fire at a derelict commercial building in Stoke-on-Trent.

Crews from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the blaze at the site between Ephraim Street and Paxton Street in Hanley at about 06:00 BST on Tuesday.

Staffordshire Police said a fire investigation had determined the fire was started deliberately.

The force said a 41-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, was arrested on Wednesday morning on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

At its height, seven fire crews were sent to the scene along with two aerial ladder platforms, the fire service added.

Nobody was reported to be injured and firefighters remained at the building on Wednesday, along with police officers, to continue their investigation.

The man remains in custody while inquiries continue, police said.

Anyone with information about the blaze is asked to contact the force.

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