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.

It is understood that CCTV footage from the school's cameras shows a group of youths at the rear of the school on Sunday afternoon at around the time the fire started.

Parents have been told there are plans for some pupils to return to school next Monday.

A statement from the school read: "Whilst the fire has caused significant damage we are determined to get the school and lessons up and running as soon as possible.

"Please can parents make arrangement to keep all pupils at home for the remainder of week as we have been advised that the school will not be accessible.

"Staff, pupils, parents and friends of the school are welcome to join us for Mass at St Mary’s Church at 8am on Tuesday September 3. God Bless."

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."