Arson probe launched after blaze at former social club sends smoke billowing across Hartlepool

An arson probe has been launched after a devastating fire at a former Hartlepool social club.

Firefighters raced to the former Engineers Social Club, on Raby Road, after reports of the venue being "well alight" around 7.30pm on Tuesday. The huge fire sent plumes of smoke billowing across the town - with Cleveland Police blocking off the road while a fleet of eight fire engines battled with the roaring flames.

Dramatic aerial pictures from the scene showed the orange glow coming from the centre of the building blaze while nearby streets were overwhelmed by smoke. Cleveland Police has now confirmed it is investigating the incident as arson - and is asking for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to get in touch.

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Road closures remain in place between Raby Road and Swainston Street whilst the area is made safe, with fire crews dampening down the area on Wednesday morning. Investigations are continuing to be carried out at the site.

A Cleveland Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Cleveland Fire Brigade were called on April 30, 2024 at 7.26pm to an incident at the former Engineers Social Club on Raby Road in Hartlepool. Eight fire engines were in attendance from Hartlepool, Thornaby, Yarm, Stockton, and Middlesbrough. The combined aerial rescue pump (CARP) was also in attendance.

"Derelict social club well alight, no one injured. The incident has scaled down to one fire engine which is currently in attendance to dampen down the area. Investigations will take place to determine the cause once the incident has fully concluded.”

A force spokesperson said: "Officers are investigating an arson following a fire at the former Engineer’s Social Club on Raby Road in the town last night, Tuesday, April 30. Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of the fire, which took place between 7pm and 7:30pm, to call police on 101, quoting reference SE24079133.

"Road closures remain in place between Raby Road and Swainston Street whilst the area is made safe and investigations are carried out. We would like to thank residents for their patience."