Shropshire church blaze may have been arson

The blaze began outside at rear of Hope Church in Oswestry this afternoon and quickly spread inside.

Firefighters trying to deal with the incident found themselves hampered by onlookers and police had to be called to put a cordon around the area of Laburnum Drive in Eastern Oswestry.

The alarm was raised at when passers-by noticed smoke coming from the back of the church.

Firefighters from Oswestry were first on scene and other units, including the aerial ladder from Telford were called in amid fears that the building could be overwhelmed.

But Shropshire Fire Safety Officer, Shaun Baker, said the Oswestry crews did well to contain the blaze quickly.

"The fire started at the rear of the property but spread inside. Fire damage was limited but there was also smoke damage," he said.

Mr Baker said in such incidents it was vital that firefighters were able to do their job without hinderance from the public.

"Unfortunately we had to ask for help from the police to clear onlookers from the area and put up a safety cordon," he said.

Pastor Derek Hughes of Hope Church speaking at the scene said the amount of damage had not yet been fully assessed.

But he said volunteers had already pledge to help clear up and ensure the church was reopened as soon as possible.

"The area of the church where services are held is at the front so I hope Sunday will not be affected," he said.

Residents said it was a shame the church had been targeted.

Mrs Kim Dawson said the church put on a lot of activities for the community.

"I have four children and they have all been to the holiday club there. The church does a lot for the area," she said.

Mr Baker said the cause of the fire was being investigated.