Second man admits arson after pub destroyed by fire

A second man has admitted setting a pub on fire shortly before Christmas more than two years ago.

The Green Man in Clophill, Bedfordshire, was severely damaged, and eight people were taken to hospital on 21 December 2022.

Tony Button, 49, from Kempston, admitted arson with intent to endanger life at Luton Crown Court and is due to be sentenced on 24 July.

In May 2024, Ian Chalmers, 67, from Campton, also pleaded guilty to arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.

Chalmers was given a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years and was instructed to carry out 200 hours of community work and pay a £187 surcharge.

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