A BLAZE that ripped through a disused building in Northwich town centre is being treated as arson.

Police are appealing for witnesses and video footage following a fire in a disused building at the bottom of Winnington Hill, near to the junction of Castle Street.

Emergency services arrived at the scene at around 2.55pm on Sunday, December 17, following numerous calls from the public.

The fire broke out on the first floor of a three-storey derelict building.

Three fire engines and a rapid response rescue unit tackled the blaze.

The cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate, and an investigation has been launched.

Northwich Guardian: Emergency services at the scene Emergency services at the scene (Image: Jo Garratt)

Inspector Jason Murray said: “This investigation is in the early stages and we’re doing everything that we can to establish what took place.

“The incident occurred on a busy Sunday afternoon on one of the main roads into Northwich town centre.

“Therefore, we’re urging anyone was in the area between 2pm and 2.55pm and thinks they may have seen anything suspicious, or anyone trying to access the building, to get in touch.

“The same goes for anyone with any dashcam or CCTV footage which may aid our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cheshire police on 101 or via cheshire.police.uk/tell-us quoting IML 1715442.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.