Cleveland Fire Brigade have confirmed that the large fire in Billingham last night (October 17) at the Low Grange Social Club was "deliberate".

The incident began at 9.47pm last night on Low Grange Avenue and three fire engines were dispatched to the scene.

The crews were from Billingham and Stockton. 

Police also attended the scene and closed Low Grange Avenue while the fire service battled the flames.

(Image: Terry Blackburn) (Image: Terry Blackburn) When they arrived they found a public house on fire with thirty per cent of the first floor on fire and the bar area destroyed. 

The cause of the fire is believed to be "deliberate". Crews left the scene just before 1am this morning.

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A Cleveland Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Cleveland Fire Brigade were called to an incident on 17/10/2024 at 21.47 on Low Grange Avenue in Billingham.

(Image: Terry Blackburn) "Three fire engines were in attendance from Billingham and Stockton, as well as the Hydraulic Platform. There was a public house on fire.

"First floor 30% smoke and fire damage, 100% fire damage to bar area. The cause is believed to be deliberate. We left the scene at 00.43.”

A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "We received a call from our fire Brigade colleagues at 10.05pm last night reporting they were dealing with a fire at Low Grange Social Club, Billingham.

"Officers attended the scene, the fire was extinguished and it was confirmed that there was no-one inside the building.

"Enquiries into the cause of the fire, which is currently being treated as suspicious, are continuing today and we would appeal for anyone with information, doorbell, dashcam or CCTV footage to contact Cleveland Police on the 101 number  Please quote ref 199532."