Staffordshire police treating fire at Crooked House pub as arson

Police have said they are now treating the fire at the historic Crooked House pub as arson.

In an update on Wednesday evening, Staffordshire police said: “Our investigation into a fire at the Crooked House on Himley Road last Saturday continues as we try to understand the circumstances, which we are now treating as arson.

“This fire has shocked and upset so many given the, albeit not listed, cultural importance and heritage of the building. This is not lost on us and a robust investigation using all available information and forensic opportunities is being carried out.”

The fire at the famous pub, nine days after it was sold to new owners, followed by its demolition, has caused national outrage and calls for it to be rebuilt.

More details soon…