Firebugs destroy probation office
Published Date:
12 May 2008
An investigation has been launched after Wigan's probation office was badly damaged in an arson attack.
More than half the two-storey building off Warrington Lane in Scholes has been destroyed. At its height more than 25 firefighters fought the blaze.
The alarm was raised at 10pm last night by members of the public who spotted the fire.
When firefighters arrived minutes later the flames were pouring out of several windows.
At one point firemen were concerned a probation officer was still in the building after being told by neighbours they often worked late.
Leading fireman Ralph Twiss at Wigan Fire Station said: "It took a good hour to get the fire under control. This was a very large fire that is being treated as suspicous."
More than 16 staff work at the Brook House Centre Unpaid Work Unit where offenders meet to carry out unpaid work across the borough.
The probation service said there was a back-up plan in place for such events.
Greater Manchester Police said: "The incident is being treated as arson and inquiries are continuing."
The full article contains 184 words and appears in Wigan Evening Post newspaper.
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Last Updated:
12 May 2008 9:48 AM
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Source:
Wigan Evening Post
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Location:
Wigan
