Deliberate Fire at Derelict Pub in South Ockendon

Firefighters from Essex County Fire and Rescue addressed a deliberately set fire at a derelict building in South Ockendon, the service reported. The emergency call came at 01:20 GMT on Wednesday, directing crews to Daiglen Drive, South Ockendon, Essex. There, they encountered a boarded-up two-storey pub, approximately 60% of which was alight. Watch manager Gary Bannister stated: “Crews fought the fire from the outside, due to the condition of the building and the fact there was no risk to other properties.” The blaze was brought under control by 03:20, and its origin was officially determined to be deliberate, the fire service confirmed. Essex Police were also notified regarding the incident.