HOUSES in Crewe were evacuated while firefighters tackled a blaze that destroyed a former scout hut in the Maw Green area of town.

Emergency services believe the fire that wrecked the disused building in Mirion Street was started deliberately.

Four fire engines attended the scene of the arson attack at 10.34pm on Thursday, February 7.

They found flames engulfing the 5mx10m single storey building.

After confirming that there were no electricity or gas feeds to the structure, firefighters put two ground monitor jets into action. The last fire engine left the scene just after 1am.

A police spokesman confirmed: “The fire was dealt with and believed to be deliberate ignition.

“A small number of residents were evacuated while the fire was brought under control. They were returned to their houses within an hour.”

Anyone with information should contact Crewe NPU on 101 quoting incident number 971 of 7 February 2013.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.