 The building was due to be demolished |
Fire investigators in Devon and Cornwall say the school holidays have seen a huge increase in the number of arsons. They are warning that it is only a matter of time before someone is killed or seriously injured.
In 2002, the cost of arsons in Devon and Cornwall was more than �10m.
Over recent weeks, there have been a number of fires that investigators believe have been started deliberately, including a derelict hotel in Torquay, as well as a number of smaller fires in other property and rubbish bins in both counties.
Dry climate
Dave Powlesland of Devon Fire and Rescue Service said if the trend continues the danger will escalate.
He said: "We don't ever want to have to go to fires were people are injured or lose their lives. But, unfortunately, it's only a matter of time before something like that will happen.
"Because the climate is very dry at the moment, fire can spread very, very rapidly."
Fire investigators are calling on parents to make sure they know where their children are during the holidays and what they are doing.
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