THIS picture of a suspected arson attack on a derelict school building has been issued by Minehead Fire Station.

Local firefighters tackled the blaze in Periton Road shortly before 10pm last Friday.

Two fire engines from the town were initially sent to the incident.

But the incident commander requested three additional appliances from Porlock and Williton as well as the water carrier from Bridgwater and a command support unit from Wiveliscombe.

The incident involved a detached over two-storey derelict building formerly used as classrooms and a gym.

The fire was located on the ground floor within the former classrooms.

About half of the building was destroyed in the fire, which is believed to have been started deliberately.

Police also attended and are carrying out further investigations.

Crews were able to stop the fire spreading to the main gym hall.

The old school building was not damaged by the fire.

Anyone who may have further information relating to the incident is asked to contact the police.

Crews carried out a further inspection of the site for hot spots the following morning.

Minehead Fire Station has released the image with the permission of the building owner and security company.