Lancashire School Blaze Five Boys Arrested

Police have arrested five boys aged between 11 and 15 on suspicion of arson following a school fire in Lancashire. The blaze broke out on Sunday afternoon at Leyland St Mary’s High School on Royal Avenue. At one point, 125 firefighters and 20 fire engines were tackling the fire. The school, which was built in 1957, had no sprinklers. Lancashire Police announced on Twitter: “Five boys in total, aged between 11 and 15, have now been arrested on suspicion of arson following the fire at Leyland St Mary’s High School.” They were later released on police bail until September 30. Classes were due to resume at the school on Tuesday. A note on the school’s website said: “A fire at school today (Sunday) has caused devastating damage. “This website will post details of when pupils will be able to return … Please pray for the school at this difficult time.” Lancashire County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson said on Twitter: “As a former pupil of Leyland St Mary’s, I’m so sorry to hear of devastating fire. I hope to be a part of the LCC team who rebuilds it.”