Arson arrest after fire at derelict former school

A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fire at a derelict former school.

Flames swept through Grade II listed Newell House in Cornhill, Sherborne, on 26 April, causing most of its roof to collapse.

Following liaison with the fire service, the cause of the blaze was confirmed to be suspicious, said Dorset Police.

A man, aged in his 30s, from Milborne Port in Somerset, was arrested and has since been released on bail while further enquiries are carried out, it said.

Officers have urged the public to avoid speculating while the investigation continue.

More than 35 firefighters from eight stations were sent to tackle the blaze at the three-storey former independent school.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service worked through the night to put out the flames. No injuries were reported.

Nearby roads were closed for three days while contractors worked to make the site safe.

Campaign groups have called for a public inquiry into "the background, actions taken and lessons to be learned from this tragic loss of one of Sherborne's best loved houses".

Dorset Council said it has been "liaising closely" with the owner of the building for several years and was "satisfied" that it has taken all action it is legally allowed to.