A FIRE behind the Memorial Hall in Ombersley, near Worcester, which caused thousands of pounds of damage was started deliberately.
Alec Mackie, spokesman for the Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The only cause of the fire following the investigation can be put down to someone starting it.
"Fire investigators looked to see if there was a break-in. There wasn't. They looked to see if there were any electrical equipment which may have fused or caught fire. There was no other evidence of a fire starting accidentally."
The Worcester News reported that the blaze, which happened last Thursday just before 10pm, destroyed a shed, which was next to the community hall.
The shed contained props and scenery used by the Ombersley Dramatic Society.
The fire also engulfed nearby trees and heat from this caused damage to the house behind the trees, including to the guttering, summer house, fencing, windows and drain pipes. The heat also caused the windows of a single storey extension to the Memorial Hall to break. This room was also smoke damaged. The hall was not affected by the blaze,
The police have re-issued an appeal for help from the public. If anyone saw anything suspicious at the hall at the time of the fire they should call 08457 444888 and quote 856S/270706.
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