VANDALS are being blamed for a fire at the Hardy block of disused naval accommodation on Portland.
Two fire crews from Portland and the high rise fire appliance from Weymouth were called out after members of the public reported smoke from the building at Castletown yesterday afternoon.
Portland Station Officer John Stone said the blaze on the fourth floor was started deliberately. Cushions and some wood panelling was severely damaged, furniture was affected and there was severe smoke damage.
Station Officer Stone said the building was a known play area for youngsters and he appealed for parents to keep their children away from the block. He added: "The potential there for injury to youngsters is high.
"It is getting to be a dangerous place. There is glass everywhere, broken furniture and many windows open. If children were trapped in there it doesn't bear thinking about. Any parent who cares about their child should keep them well away from the building."
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