An investigation is under way after arsonists targeted an unused hospital building in Norwich
About 16 firefighters fought to control the blaze at Norwich Community Hospital on Bowthorpe Road on Wednesday evening.
Three fire engines were called to the scene at 6.30pm and spent about one and half hours to bring the fire under control. It is believed the incident was started by someone who forced their way into the building through a window.
Scott Norman, station manager at Carrow, said: 'We believe it was started deliberately by arsonists and it has taken three pumps to deal with this incident for the past hour and a half, which has reduced fire cover for the area.
'When we arrived there was thick black smoke pulsating out of the doors, so the crews wore breathing apparatus and used main and hose reel jets to bring it under control.'
Mr Norman said he would be engaging with the arson reduction officer and that the incident would be investigated.
The fire took place in a redundant section of the hospital and was mostly contained to one room.
But there was significant smoke damage to the corridor of the building and neighbouring rooms.
A large pile of linen had caught fire and had to be brought out of the building to be hosed down by fire crews. There was also signs of vandalism elsewhere in the building, with a sink smashed in one of the toilets. Fire engines from Earlham, Carrow and Sprowston attended the scene.
If you witnessed the incident call Norfolk Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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