Probe launched into huge blaze at Sunderland bingo hall

The community link furniture store building at The Green went up in flames on Friday night.

On Saturday, Northumbria Police announced that a man and a woman had been arrested on suspicion of arson.

They have now said that everyone arrested in connection with the incident has been bailed pending further inquiries.

The fire started at about 5.30pm, and ripped through the former bingo hall, which had been being used by an auction rooms business.

More than 50 firefighters battled to put out the blaze, and work has been ongoing since then to reopen roads around it which had to be closed for safety reasons, and make the building safe by demolishing part of it.

A spokesman for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “We’ve been back working with the local authority and a demolition company to make the building safe, and so that the roads and bus lane can reopen. A sweeper has also attended to remove debris from the road.

“The pathway around the building has been made secure with fencing.

“One appliance was there on Sunday morning checking heat spots, and that all the fires were out. An investigation is underway by the police and fire service.”

Many residents visited the scene of the fire over the weekend, and expressed their shock.

Kayleigh McDoughal, 23, from Thompson Road, said: “There were lots of people gathered there watching it blazing – it was horrific. A lamppost nearby came down as a result and the lights on my house were flickering on and off for about 45 minutes, so I was worried I would lose the power.

“It is a really old building, so I can’t believe it is gone.

“Everyone will be devastated. It is dreadful.”

One person questioned by police was released this morning.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “Inquiries remain ongoing into the fire and anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 reference number 864 02/2/17.”