Police investigate suspected arson attack on COVID test site in Burnley

Fire crews were called to the test site, opposite the bus station in Centenary Way, after one of its tents caught fire at 9.19pm.

A hose reel was used to extinguish the fire before crews reported it to police.

A joint investigation has now been launched into the suspected arson attack.

The testing site will remain closed today whilst an investigation is carried out, but the site had already been scheduled to close today and tomorrow due changes to its opening hours.

Due to increased demand across Lancashire, many testing sites have been forced to reduce their opening hours, with the Burnley site now open from Saturday to Wednesday, between 10am and 3pm, each week.

A fire service spokesman said: "Last night, we were called to a fire involving a tent at the COVID test site on Centenary Way, Burnley at 9.19pm.

"One fire engine from Burnley attended the scene and the firefighters used one hose reel to extinguish the fire.

"There was minimal damage to the tent and firefighters were at the scene for 20 minutes and a joint police and fire investigation is underway."

A police spokesman added: "This has been reported to us and a joint investigation is underway with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.

"Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 1499 of September 15."