Arsonists blamed for centre fire

Police suspect a fire at a village community centre was started deliberately.
The blaze at Farnsfield Village Centre, New Hill, Farnsfield, started at around 9am on Tuesday.

The watch commander at Southwell Fire Station, Mr Fraser McNish, said fires had started in more than one part of the building.

The kitchen was badly damaged and there was smoke damage to other parts of the building.

Mr McNish said the kitchen would have to be replaced and parts of the building would need redecorating.

A spokesman for Nottinghamshire Police said the fire was being treated as arson.

The building is owned by Farnsfield Parish Council.

The council chairman, Mr Derek Jepson, said the upper floor of the centre could still be used.

“We have no idea when the building will be repaired and we won’t know until we’ve got information from the insurance company,” he said.

Meetings of the Brownies, Guides, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and a salsa dancing class were cancelled or moved to other venues.

On Wednesday the Brownies met at Farnsfield Methodist Church.

Brown Owl Mrs Judy Gees said she hoped they would be back in the centre in around two weeks.

“Although it is upsetting the damage could have been a lot worse,” she said.

Anyone with information about the fire should contact Newark Police on 01636 605999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.