Image released after fire at a Nottingham church

Police investigating a fire at a churchyard have released CCTV images of a man they’d like to speak to.

Emergency services were called to All Saints’ Church, in Raleigh Street, Radford, following reports of a fire.

The fire is understood to have originated in an outhouse within the church grounds at around 9.40pm on 27 May 2022.

Firefighters managed to quickly put out the fire but not before it damaged the gas pipe, leaving the church without heating or hot water.

Officers would like to trace the individual pictured and are now appealing for anyone who recognises him to come forward.

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Police Constable Mitchell Thomas, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “We believe that this fire was started deliberately and are determined to find whoever was responsible.

“It really should go without saying but this kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in our society.

“Thankfully emergency services were able to quickly contain this fire and nobody sustained any injuries.

“It’s important that the man in these pictures comes forward, as we believe he may have some vital information that could assist our investigation.

“We’d ask anyone who recognises this man, or has any other information that could aid our inquiries, to get in touch with us straight away.”

Chris Clark, group manager for prevention at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We take deliberate fire setting very seriously at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, and work hard to discourage this behaviour.

“We will always be there for our communities when you are in need, but not only do deliberate fires put people at risk, they take us away from other emergencies.

“In an exceptionally busy summer period, this behaviour is highly dangerous.

“If you know any information about deliberate fire setting in your community, I strongly encourage you report it.”

Information can be left about the All Saints’ Church fire, either by calling the police on 101, quoting incident 861 of 27 May 2022, or by leaving an anonymous message with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”