Blaze at Epsom Playhouse Sparks Arson Probe
Surrey Fire and Police have launched a joint investigation after a deliberate fire started on a wheelie bin spread to the dressing rooms of the 406-seat Epsom Playhouse in the early hours. Fire crews were called just after 2.30am to tackle the blaze.
Fire Spreads from Wheelie Bin to Playhouse Roof
Crews from Epsom, Banstead, Esher, Leatherhead and an aerial ladder platform from Painshill scrambled to the scene. An Incident Command unit arrived from Reigate. Police swiftly closed South Street in the town centre, allowing firefighters to use the aerial platform to access the roof at the rear of the building.
Sources reveal this is the third suspected arson involving wheelie bins in the area this week. Firefighters and Surrey Police are linking the incidents as they investigate.
Firefighters Race to Save Costumes and Stop Blaze
Staff and managers at the playhouse have praised the crews’ fast response and bravery. Firefighters donned breathing apparatus to enter the smoke-filled building and tackled the fire with hose reels. Two teams rescued valuable costumes, moving them away from the spreading fire backstage.
Externally, crews used ladders and the aerial platform to remove roof tiles and foam layers with cutting tools and wrecking bars to prevent the fire’s spread.
Nearby Shops Evacuated as Fire Brings Town Centre Chaos
The blaze caused the evacuation of nearby Superdrug, as firefighters continued to battle the flames. By just after 4am Monday, the fire was brought under control and the incident scaled down.
Surrey Police and Fire investigation officers remain at the scene with a cordon in place. Local CID detectives are probing the arson.
Surrey Police promised a joint press statement with the fire service soon. Witnesses or anyone with information are urged to call Surrey Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
