Nottinghamshire Police have arrested several individuals, including multiple children, in connection with a series of arson attacks across Worksop in recent weeks.
Abandoned Building Torched
The most recent incident occurred on Sunday evening (19 May) at around 7.30pm, when emergency services were called to a fire at St Anne’s Veterinary Centre on Newcastle Avenue — an abandoned property deliberately set alight.
Swift action by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service crews helped contain the fire, while rapid follow-up by police led to the arrest of four suspects within hours. CCTV footage played a crucial role in tracking them down.
Arrests Made:
All three have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remain in custody.
A 10-year-old boy was also arrested on the same charge but has since been released on police bail.
Earlier Arrests Linked to String of Fires
These arrests follow the arrest of a 13-year-old boy on Friday 16 May, suspected of being involved in six arson attacks. In a separate development, a 12-year-old boy was arrested on Sunday afternoon (19 May) for arson.
Police believe these suspects are connected to a wave of deliberate fires reported earlier this month, including:
- Grassland and trees torched at Kilton Forest Golf Course on 7, 9, 12 and 13 May
- Playground equipment set ablaze at Prospect Park, Northwood, on the evening of 12 May
Police and Community Response
All arrested juveniles remain on police bail as investigations continue. Nottinghamshire Police have deployed additional officers to conduct extra patrols in the affected neighbourhoods.
A Nottinghamshire Police spokesperson said:
“This type of reckless and dangerous behaviour has put lives at risk and caused distress in the local community. We want to reassure residents that we are taking this matter extremely seriously, and swift arrests have been made thanks to CCTV and public assistance.”
Appeal for Information
Anyone with further information is urged to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting relevant incident numbers. Reports can also be made anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
