SEVEN youths arrested on suspicion of arson following the Mr Smith’s blaze have all been released on police bail.

The teens, which included four 17-year-old boys, a 16-year-old boy, 16-year-old-girl and a 15-year-old girl from Warrington, were arrested yesterday, Tuesday.

A 43-year-old man who was initially arrested was released yesterday by police without charge.

The roof of the main building had collapsed and a partial demolition of the building is now under way.

A huge crane is currently pulling the side of the building closest to Wilson Patten Street down.

 


More than 50 fire fighters and 12 engines were tackling the blaze but just two engines now remain.

Warrington Guardian:

The statement from Cheshire Constabulary earlier today reads: "Emergency services continue to work at the scene of a major fire at the former Mr Smith′s nightclub in Warrington.

"Firefighters have the fire under control and the smoke is now dissipating, so there is no longer any need to stay indoors.

"However, a partial demolition of the building is planned later today, which may result in some plumes of dust and smoke.

"Road closures remain in place on Wilson Patten Street and Parker Street. Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible, particularly HGVs.

"We can now confirm that three people have been arrested in connection with the incident − a 43-year-old local man and two juveniles."

Roads around the former nightclub remain closed which caused major problems for commuters this morning with Bridge Foot closed and authorities telling people to avoid the area.

Parker Street remains closed in both directions between Museum Street and Bridge Street and traffic was affected on Mersey Street and Bridge Foot.

Warrington Guardian:

When the fire service arrived, the fire was well under way and two hydraulic platforms were used throughout the day to extinguish the blaze.

The fire service said at its height, the fire was around 35m by 25m.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious is urged to call police on 101 quoting incident 63 of April 14.

Warrington Guardian:

The former club and Ritz cinema was set to become a youth zone run by a Warrington Youth Club with the council putting in £3 million to redevelop the building.

A final decision on that investment was set to be made soon.

this is the second major blaze in little over 48 hours after arson was suspected at a fire at BT Skip Hire late on Saturday night.

For the latest on that, click here.

Warrington Guardian: Mr Smith's Rick Astley