A 16-YEAR-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson yesterday following the fire at Malmesbury Abbey. 

At around 9.45pm on Friday, June 3, police officers were called to the incident in Abbey Row where three bins had been set on fire.

The fire is understood to have started when yobs set fire to waste and refuse outside the abbey, which dates from the 12th century.

Locals reacted quickly using buckets of water and fire extinguishers. The fire service was also called and the fire was extinguished.

The teen was interviewed under caution and released on bail.

Marlborough Police said: "Enquiries are ongoing and we are actively progressing several further lines of enquiry.

"We are appealing to members of the public who may have information relating to this incident to contact us on 101 quoting log 54220057246.

"Alternatively you can report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Inspector James Brain added: “I would like to thank members of the public for their support and response to our ongoing appeal for information.

“Understandably this incident has caused a great deal of concern in the local community and I would like to assure members of the public that we are actively pursuing this investigation with all of the resources at our disposal and are determined to identify all of those who are responsible.”