School Fire 'Suspicious'

14 July 2011, 10:46 | Updated: 14 July 2011, 10:51

Police think a fire at a primary school that led to thick black smoke rising up may have been started deliberately.

Hertfordshire's Fire and Rescue Service say they took 36 calls from different members of the public on the evening of Wednesday 13 July 2011 about the fire at St Vincent de Paul Primary School in Bedwell Crescent, Stevenage.  Many of those calling reported seeing thick black smoke.

The fire wasn't in the main school building, but in a wooden outdoor shelter, which has been completely destroyed along with some plastic tables that were inside.  No one was hurt and there was no damage to any of the school buildings.
 
DI Gary Atkinson said: "We believe this fire may have been started deliberately and we will be investigating to determine who was responsible for this reckless act.
 
"I am keen to speak with anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity, or anyone running from the scene, around the time of the fire to contact police via the non-emergency number, 101. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers, the independent charity, on 0800 555 111."