Essex Police have arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson following a fire that completely destroyed the historic Worlds End pub on Fort Road in Tilbury. The blaze, which broke out at around 4.40pm on Wednesday, September 23, was the fourth incident at the derelict site in recent days, according to emergency services.
Arrest made after blaze at derelict pub
An Essex Police spokesman said: "We were called shortly after 4.40pm on Wednesday, September 23. Our officers attended and arrested a man, aged in his 20s, on suspicion of arson. He remains in custody for questioning and our investigation continues."
The Grade II-listed building was completely destroyed by the fire, which sent plumes of smoke drifting across the Thames Estuary into Kent. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the blaze was brought under control by 6.30pm.
Fourth incident at the site in days
Crews had been called to the site on three previous occasions in the days leading up to the fire. Incidents included fires involving pallets and general waste on Saturday, rubbish and grass on Monday, and containers on Tuesday.
Residents had raised concerns that the derelict building was vulnerable to arson and vandalism, according to local reports. Some locals described the fire as a "tragic loss" to the community.
Community reacts to loss of historic landmark
Tony Burent, a former regular at the pub, said the building may now be "lost forever." Nearby resident Andy Shrewsbury described watching "a piece of history" burn down and called the blaze a "complete tragedy."
Police are appealing for information and urge anyone with CCTV or footage to contact them. The investigation into the fire is ongoing.
