Fiddle I'th Bag pub fire was arson attack, police say

Firefighters were called to the Fiddle I’th Bag Inn on Alder Lane shortly before 12.30pm on Sunday, March 8.

‘Extensive damage’ was caused to the building, with the fire now believed to have been started deliberately.

Picture by Caroline Yeoman

Cheshire Police sergeant Upile Mtitimila said: “A fire investigator has confirmed that the fire was started deliberately.

“The closed down pub sustained extensive smoke and fire damage as a result of the arson attack, but the consequences of the incident could have been far worse.

“We believe that various people or groups have been using the building since the pub closed down.

“Thankfully, no-one was in the building when the fire took hold and firefighters were able to extinguish the fire before it had chance to spread to the exterior of the building and beyond.

“Fire spreads quickly and can endanger lives as well as properties.

“I would like to reassure members of the community that this is believed to be an isolated incident, and we are determined to establish who started the fire and make them face the consequences of their actions.

“Enquiries are ongoing, and as part of our investigation we want to speak to anyone who was in the area between 9.30am and 12.30pm on Sunday, March 8, and witnessed anything suspicious.

“We also want to hear from anyone who thinks they may know who started the fire, or have mobile phone, CCTV or dashcam footage of them.”

Picture by Caroline Yeoman

Three fire engines attended the scene, and spent more than two hours tackling the blaze.

No injuries were reported, but Alder Lane was shut at the junction with Alder Root Lane as Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service worked to make the scene safe.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML655828, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.