TWO men have appeared in court following a house fire in Worcester earlier this week.

Jason Bridger and Adam Eversham, both 22, have been charged with arson with intent to endanger lives in connection to the blaze which gutted an empty house in Ripon Road, Ronskwood, at 2.42am on Wednesday and resulted in a number of neighbours being evacuated.

At Worcester Magistrates Court neither men entered pleas.

Bridger, of Ripon Road, and Eversham, of Wells Road, Ronkswood, were also accused of stealing lead piping from the address.

Both were remanded in custody until the case is heard at Worcester Crown Court on Monday, January 12.

A male juvenile, who can not be named for legal reasons, was arrested in connection with the incident. He has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

Detective Sergeant Stuart Murphy, investigating, said: “This was a serious incident and we would like to talk to anyone who witnessed anything that night, or in the days leading up to the fire.

“We would like to hear from anyone who has any information, no matter how insignificant they feel it may be, in connection with the fire.”

Anyone with any information can call police on 08457 444888, quoting 36/S/081008, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.