Teenager Arrested Over Ryde Town Hall Fire

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a fire at the former Ryde Town Hall.

The teenager, who is from Ryde, was arrested on suspicion of arson following police enquiries into the blaze.

He has since been released on bail, with conditions, until 28 November.

The fire broke out at the Grade II-listed building on Lind Street on the evening of 26 August.

Around 35 firefighters from across the Island were involved in tackling the blaze, which was concentrated towards the rear of the former theatre.

At its height, the response included six pumping appliances, an aerial ladder platform, a water carrier and a command support unit.

Firefighters were able to stop the flames from destroying the entire building, although the fire spread into the roof space.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary says extensive enquiries are continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Anyone with information which could help the investigation is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 44260417866.