The landmark Middleton Arms pub – due to be demolished to make way for an Aldi store – has been badly damaged by fire.
The incident – which happened late last night – is being treated as suspected arson. The abandoned building had suffered from anti-social behaviour and vandalism in the past.
It’s understood the fire primarily affected the roof space and first floor areas, but spread elsewhere. The roof of the building has been destroyed.
According to a report from West Yorkshire Fire Service:
Appliances from Hunslet, Rothwell and Morley attended. The aerial from Leeds and the Carp from Wakefield also attended.
Dozens of comments of anger and disbelief have been posted on the Middleton Arms facebook page:
Nick Yelland said: “Such a shame another part of miggy history destroyed and lost just like the old golf house.”
Josie Burnett said: “Blimey, no more Arms. Can’t believe it. It was bad enough seeing it boarded up but it’s like someone’s set fire to all our memories.”
Debra Morton said: “My god I can see the flames from my bedroom window. It’s awful!”
Sophiiee Leiigh said: “Whoever did this is just pathetic n need to grow the **** up!!!! x”
There are lots more comments on the facebook page.
On Thursday council officers approved plans to demolish the pub and build an Aldi supermarket on the site.
UPDATE Sunday, 11.40am: This video footage of the blaze has been uploaded onto Youtube by Recnepsmaharg:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOLHp3vemcU&w=420&h=315]
UPDATED Sunday 4.20pm – The below photo was taken of the pub building earlier today:
