A 17-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a major fire caused extensive damage to businesses near Weston-super-Mare.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service was called to the blaze near Locking Farm Industrial Estate during the early hours of Tuesday, 18 August.

Firefighters battled the large blaze while police assisted emergency crews by partially closing the A371 Locking Road. The road was subsequently reopened.

Several businesses were severely affected, with significant damage caused to industrial units at the site.

An initial investigation into the cause of the fire concluded that it was likely to have been started deliberately.

17-year-old arrested

Detectives from Avon and Somerset Police subsequently launched enquiries, including house-to-house investigations and reviews of CCTV footage.

Police confirmed that a 17-year-old boy was arrested on Saturday, 22 August, on suspicion of arson.

He remains in police custody while enquiries continue.

Police appeal for information

Investigators are continuing to appeal for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity, has CCTV, dashcam or other footage, or has information about the fire to come forward.

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101, quoting reference 5226232390.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Topics :CrimeFire

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