Four fire crews called out to blaze in Cookstown

The fire, which took hold of an empty two-storey detached building, is thought to have been deliberately started.

Fire appliances from Cookstown, Dungannon and Pomeroy attended the incident, which was dealt with at 12.51pm precisely.

Police said they are appealing for information following the fire.

Commenting on the incident, Inspector Robert McGowan said: “Police received a report shortly after 12.30pm today of a vacant property being on fire. The building sustained extensive damage.

“We are treating this incident as arson,” he added.

“I would ask anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area or anyone who has information to contact Police at Cookstown on the non-emergency number 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”