Essex Police have arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson following a fire at The Worlds End pub in Tilbury, a Grade II-listed derelict building. Officers were called to the scene shortly after 4.40pm on Wednesday, September 23, and the suspect remains in custody for questioning.
Arrest and Police Statement
An Essex Police spokesman said: "An arrest was made after officers attended reports of a fire at a derelict pub in Tilbury. 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 fire at the historic pub caused a huge plume of smoke visible from as far away as Gravesend, with drone footage showing the extent of the devastation.
Firefighting Efforts and Aftermath
Firefighters established a water supply and tackled the blaze from both the ground and above. The fire was brought under control by 6.30pm, but crews remained at the scene into the evening to check for hot spots and ensure the area was safe.
Since Saturday, multiple fires have been reported near the pub, including blazes involving pallets, general waste, rubbish, grass, and containers. Enquiries into the incident are ongoing, according to Essex Police.
