Two boys arrested over arson at disused convent

Two boys have been arrested over a suspected arson at a disused convent in East Sussex, police have said.

Emergency services were called to a fire at the College Of The Holy Child Jesus in Magdalen Road, St Leonards, shortly after 17:00 BST on Thursday.

Sussex Police said the suspects were aged 13 and 14 and from the local area, and had been taken into custody.

A spokesperson for the force said Magdalen Road and adjoining streets remained closed on Friday, and advised motorists to seek alternative routes.

It is believed the fire broke out on the third floor of the former Catholic college, which closed in 1976.

It was later used as a language school before falling into disrepair, although its chapel remains Grade II listed.

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