Arson attacks destroy derelict shop and pub in Havering

TWO derelict buildings were up in flames after being targeted by arsonists over the Bonfire weekend.

Red watch crews from Hornchurch and Harold Hill fire stations battled the fires at a derelict shop in Redden Court Road, Harold Wood at around 2am and a pub in Simpson Road, Elm Park on Sunday November 7.

Around ten firefighters were called to the fire at the former newsagents at 2am and using specialist breathing equipment and a fire pump they were able to bring the fire under control by 3am.

All of the three floors in the building were completely damaged by the blaze.

Later at around 3.05pm, more than 30 firefighters tackled a blaze at the former Welcome Home Pub which damaged the ground floor of the building.

Red watch manager Bowles from Hornchurch fire station said: “Both fires are being treated as suspicious and are being investigated by the fire investigation team.

“Unfortunately these incidents are quite typical of what happens over the Bonfire Night weekend but luckily no one was hurt and we managed to keep them contained.”