FOUR teenagers accused of burning down the former Mr Smith's nightclub have pleaded not guilty to arson.

Three boys, all aged 17, and a 15-year-old girl made their first appearance at Halton Youth Court to answer to the charges today, Wednesday.

The youths, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were accompanied by a parent during the hearing and spoke only to confirm their names, addresses, date of birth and to enter a not guilty plea.

The court heard how the gang of teens deny setting fire to the building with the intention of causing damage or recklessly endangering the lives of others.

Catherine Wincup, prosecuting, added: “This was a very highly publicised incident and very much in the public eye.

“The reason why the charge states recklessness is because there was a homeless man in the immediate area.”

The court heard how this man was arrested on suspicion of arson but was released without charge.

Emergency services were call to the derelict building in the early hours of April 14 following reports of a fire.

More than 50 fire fighters and 12 engines were needed at the height of the blaze.

Less than 24 hours later, a decision was made to demolish the entire building, which was valued at more than £1m, for safety reasons.

Despite the severity of the charges, the bench of magistrates made the decision to allow the case to continue in the youth court.

The decision not to send the case to crown court, where the most serious of offences are dealt with, was made after a ‘considerable debate’.

A case and management hearing has been listed to take place on August 11 at Halton Youth Court where a trial date is expected to be set.

It has been estimated that the trial will last for three to four days with 17 witnesses expected to be called to give evidence.

The four suspects were released on unconditional bail.


 


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