Newly opened Blackhall Colliery diner burnt out in arson attack

CL’s Diner in Blackhall Colliery has been left seriously damaged after it was targeted by arsonists.
By Ryan Smith
Published 21st Jul 2020, 13:24 BST
Updated 21st Jul 2020, 13:24 BST
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Durham Police and firefighters from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) were called to the diner on Middle Street in Blackhall after receiving reports of a blaze during the early hours of Friday, July 17.

A joint investigation has been launched and it is believed a suspect has gained entry to the rear of the café before setting a fire and running off.

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It is not the first time the diner, which only opened in May, has been a target for criminals when vandals broke in and set off fire extinguishers.

A blaze has left CL's Diner seriously damaged.A blaze has left CL's Diner seriously damaged.
A blaze has left CL's Diner seriously damaged.

Corey Longstaff, 22 is the owner of CL’s Diner, has said the business is now at serious risk of closure.

He said: “The full café is ruined, everything is smoked damaged. My whole business has been burnt to a crisp.

"Now all my staff are out of a job and the business is under serious threat as there is no income.”

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An online fundraiser has been set up to try to support Corey and his team while they attempt to get up and running again.

CL's Diner owner Corey Longstaff has praised the local community for helping to support him during the difficult time.CL's Diner owner Corey Longstaff has praised the local community for helping to support him during the difficult time.
CL's Diner owner Corey Longstaff has praised the local community for helping to support him during the difficult time.
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Corey added: “We’ve had loads of support and it is so nice to know there are lots of people behind us.

"It is also really good to see the community supporting a local business in a time of need.”

A Durham Constabulary spokeswoman said: “Police were called to reports of a fire at CL’s Diner in Blackhall on Friday morning (July 17) shortly after 1am.

Owner Corey Longstaff says that everything inside the cafe is ruined.Owner Corey Longstaff says that everything inside the cafe is ruined.
Owner Corey Longstaff says that everything inside the cafe is ruined.
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"It is believed entry was gained to the rear of the café by removing the padlock from the secure gate. Once inside the suspect has then set fire to the building before making off.

“The incident is being treated as arson and a joint investigation with colleagues from CDDFRS is ongoing.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Peterlee CID on 101 quoting incident number 21 of July 17.”

You can view the fundraiser for CL’s Diner by clicking here.