Three more teenage boys arrested over blaze at Hartlepool's former Wesley Chapel

Six fire crews from around the region battled flames and smoke for more than eight hours after the alarm was raised on Tuesday, November 7, at just before 6pm.

Three males, two aged 15 and one 16, were initially arrested on suspicion of arson and given conditional bail.

Cleveland Police have now revealed that three 14-year-old boys have been arrested in connection with the fire.

A force spokesperson said: “They were questioned and released on bail while inquiries continue.”

The fire was mainly located in the annexe along Swainson Street that was last used in 2004 by a gym and health club.

The full impact on £3.8m plans to convert the Wesley into a boutique venue with 36 bedrooms, bar, restaurant and commercial units remains to be seen.

But Darren Hankey, chair of Hartlepool Town Deal Board leading the Wesley project, said he hopes it will still go ahead.

He said: "While it is devastating, the board will continue to work with our committed colleagues from Hartlepool Borough Council, our partners at Jomast and the emergency services over the coming weeks and beyond to try to ensure that this vital regeneration project continues.”

The Cleveland police spokesperson added: “We would again appeal for anyone with information or footage from the area, specifically from around 4.45pm to 5.30pm on Tuesday, 7th November, to contact Hartlepool CID on the 101 number, quoting ref 221645.”