Former Robin Cousins Sports Centre in Avonmouth destroyed in a late-night arson attack

The former Robin Cousins Sports Centre in Avonmouth has been destroyed by a fire which is believed to have been started deliberately.

Police say a short time after 11pm yesterday (Tuesday March 5) two people went to the building and started a fire.

The building – now being used to store garden furniture - was badly damaged and is now unsafe and will require demolition.

Firefighters from Avonmouth, Patchway, Temple, Southmead and Kingswood fire stations arrived at the scene and were faced with a flames coming through the roof of the building.

Crews used water jets to bring the fire under control; an engine with a long ladder was also sent to the scene allowing water to be sprayed onto the fire from above.

Firefighters worked throughout the night to bring the fire under control. It caused extensive damage to the former sports hall.

An investigation into the cause of the fire found it had been started deliberately and a police investigation has been launched.

A police spokesman said: "We are treating this incident very seriously and are continuing our enquiries. We would like to speak to anyone who saw the fire being started or people acting suspiciously in the area. If you can help please contact DC John Scott on 101."