Fire in derelict Sherborne school being treated as suspicious

The roof of the former school has now collapsed.

A fire which ripped through a Grade II listed former school in Dorset, causing its roof to collapse, is being treated as suspicious, police have confirmed.

The blaze in the derelict former independent school Newell House, in the Cornhill area of Sherborne, broke out on Sunday 26 April, shortly before 6.00pm.

Dorset Police said the cause of the fire is believed to be suspicious, and it is investigating the incident.

The force said there will be an increased police presence in the area, and anyone with information or concerns should approach officers in the area.

At its height around 35 firefighters were sent to tackle the blaze Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service said at the height of the incident, around 35 firefighters were sent to tackle the blaze.

Crews from Sherborne, Yeovil, Wincanton, Martock, Crewkerne and Chard attended, along with the aerial ladder platform and a water carrier from Yeovil, and a command unit from Gillingham, the fire service added.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said no injuries were reported.

At the time, people living nearby were urged to keep doors and windows closed due to the large amount of smoke.

Dorset Council said it had been liaising closely with the owner of the building for several years regarding its state and need for repairs.

A spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to see the substantial damage a fire has had on Newell House and our building control surveyors have been on site with independent structural engineers to inspect the damage.

"Following these inspections, several elements of the building have been identified as being unsafe. Dorset Council can confirm a contractor has been appointed to address these concerns, and a safety cordon will remain in place around the affected areas to enable works to progress.

"We are continuing to engage with the owner on what actions need to be taken to make the building safe following this fire. Under the provisions of The Building Act 1984, Dorset Council will look to recover costs associated with the emergency works."

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