POLICE have said there is nothing to suggest a link between two fires which mysteriously broke out in derelict buildings in Worcester over Christmas.

However, officers are treating both blazes as unexplained and have said they will continue to investigate what may have caused them.

The first fire broke out in an empty building which was formerly the Westside sports and social club, off Hylton Road, St John's, just before midnight on Thursday, December 21. More than 50 firefighters battled the flames but could not stop the building being severely damaged.

Then, at 7am on Saturday, December 23, a fire was reported at the old County Furnishings building in Silver Street, off Lowesmoor.

Firefighters were again called out but could not prevent furniture valued at £3,000, which was being stored in part of the premises by Age Concern, from being ruined.

No one was injured in either fire.