Search for
Search for
Search forCHURCH BLAZE - THREE ARRESTED
Sunday, August 17, 2008, 00:00
Notts Police confirmed on Monday morning that the incident was being treated as arson.
And late yesterday afternoon they confirmed they had made an arrest and the suspects had been released on police bail until September 14.
Firefighters from seven different towns were drafted in to help fight the fire which happened just after 5.30pm last Thursday.
Eighteen residents of neighbouring residential home The Hollies were evacuated that evening due to fears the church - a listed building - could collapse.
And London Road - one of Retford's main routes to the A1 - was closed by police for nearly 24 hours.
Concerns for the structural safety of the church, built in 1902 and more recently used as an arts centre, called for a stone mason and structural advisor to secure anything loose in the building.
Scaffolding will be erected and a crane will be needed to remove any loose beams, followed by a full inspection.
Repairs to Holly Road will then be needed, after part of it collapsed under a fire appliance.
Investigations into why this occurred are ongoing.
It is not clear at this stage how long the full clean-up and investigations will take, but Holly Road is likely to remain closed throughout this procedure.
Notts Fire and Rescue Service Station Manager for the North West Group, Dave Bullock said crews had a battle to prevent the fire spreading to nearby buildings.
Shocked eye witnesses said the church was well alight for several hours.
The Bishop of South well & Nottingham, the Rt Rev George Cassidy said the church had a special place in the hearts and minds of local people and that his thoughts and prayers are with them.
And Canon Tony Walker, area dean of Retford said those behind the arts centre did everything they could do to keep the building an active part of the community.
"It is sad because it was a special and treasured place," he said.
"Towards the end of its time as a church there weren't as many people attending, but they have such fond memories. The church has been part of Retford's life for a long time."
A police spokesperson added police would like to thank all those who have come forward with descriptions, suspect names and information about the incident.
Further information is welcomed - contact Retford CID on 01909 500999 extension 7468 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Be the first to comment