A DERELICT pub near Wellington was destroyed in a late-night suspected arson attack.

Firefighters were called to the Merry Harriers on Blackdown Hill Road at 10.14pm on Sunday, after reports a fire had broken out.

The former pub was gutted in the incident and police say they believe the fire was started deliberately.

This is the second fire at the pub this year, following a fire at the former pub in July.

Three crews from Wellington and Taunton were originally sent to the scene and the road was closed by police as firefighters battled the blaze.

Shortly after 11pm, the fire broke through the roof of the building and continued to rage as firefighters used water cannons to try and quell the blaze.

A second water carrier from Exeter was requested to attend, as well as an aerial ladder platform from Taunton.

The building partially collapsed at 12.30am this morning as crews continued to work with compressed air foam and water to try and extinguish the blaze.

Investigating officer from Avon and Somerset Police, Det Sgt Darren Lipscomb, said: “We believe the fire was started deliberately at around 10pm and we are treating it as arson.

“Thankfully the building was empty so nobody was hurt but significant damage was caused.

“As part of our investigation we’re keen to speak to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious around the time.

“Did you drive past and perhaps see a vehicle parked next to the building or see people standing nearby?

“If you saw or heard anything out of the ordinary then please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference number 5216280689.

If you don't want to speak to the police you can ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

They never ask your name or trace your call.

The building, measuring 15 metres by 30 metres, and the roof was completely destroyed in the fire.

The building has been deemed unsafe by fire crews and a building inspector was due to attend today.