Arson fire investigation at Plymouth social club

Police are investigating the incident

An investigation is underway after a suspected arson fire at a social club in Plymouth. A police cordon is in place around the former Maritime Social Club on Saltash Road after a fire broke out on Monday night (September 23).

Devon and Cornwall Police were called to the blaze at around 9.45pm and the road was closed while firefighters rushed to the scene. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the fire began in the basement of the four-storey building, with residents living in flats above.

Fire crews confirmed all occupants had left the property and eight breathing apparatus, an attack and safety jet and three thermal images cameras, along with a gas monitor and small tools to extinguish the fire. No one was hurt in the fire.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said the fire is believed to have been started deliberately and enquiries are ongoing into the incident. A police cordon remains in place around the social club building, with a scene guard in place.

The spokesperson said: "Police were called at around 9.45pm on Monday 23 September following reports of a suspected arson at a former social club building on Saltash Road, Plymouth.

"Fire attended and a road closure was put in place. The fire service made the scene safe allowing residents in the flats above to return to their homes.

"Nobody was hurt during the blaze. A scene guard remains in place while enquiries are ongoing."