Clitheroe hotel blaze investigation closed (From This Is Lancashire)

Clitheroe hotel blaze investigation closed

1:33pm Monday 15th March 2010 in

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POLICE have closed an investigation into the fire which wrecked an 18th Century Clitheroe hotel — unless any new evidence comes to light.

The blaze broke out while 170 people were enjoying a 30th birthday party at the Swan and Royal Hotel in September.

Investigators believe it was likely to have been started deliberately.

But the damage was so extensive that forensic teams have not been able to establish what actually happened.

As well as the examination of the scene, detectives and fire officers spent hundreds of hours speaking to more than 40 witnesses and looking at CCTV images.

Senior investigating officer, Stephen Dowson said: "The investigation has concluded for the time being as all avenues of inquiry have been completed.

“However, if any new evidence comes to light then the case will be re-opened for further investigation.”

Three people were rescued as the blaze tore through the hotel in Castle Street wrecking the roof and interior on a busy Saturday night.

Watch Manager Paul Dunn, who was the incident intelligence officer said: "The fire investigation concluded that the most likely cause of the fire was deliberate ignition in the linen room.

“I considered smoking materials carelessly discarded, heating appliances, an electrical fault and spontaneous combustion as possible causes but there is no firm evidence to suggest that any of these were responsible for causing the fire."

Meanwhile, leaseholders Marston's Brewery, are determined to restore the historic pub to its former glory.

A spokesman for the brewery said: "Marston's has been looking to start work on the restoration of the hotel.

"As it is a Grade II-listed building there is a lot of approval processes to go through before work can start, but the community can be assured that we will have the venue open and trading as soon as possible."