Church was was probably arson - police

Bexhill and Rother CID confirmed on Wednesday that investigation teams believe the blaze which swept through the town's biggest church was started deliberately.

They have appealed for witnesses to assist in the investigation.

The fire gutted the library and caused extensive damage to the roof of the building.

Fire crews from Bexhill, Hastings, Pevensey and Battle fought to put out the fire which took hold Monday lst week.

Detective Constable Tony Lockey, said: "The fire is being treated as suspicious now. It is as a result of the fire investigation and what they have said.

"They don't deal in absolutes, but they have said it is more likely to be arson in the circumstances.

"It (the fire) began in the library which is used by a fair number of people by all accounts and it is not locked or supervised during the day."

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious or with any information should contact DC Lockey on 01424 456159.

r Meanwhile life at St Barnabas' carries on! That was the buoyant message this week as the parish comes to terms with the blaze.

Mass is being celebrated in the church's All Souls' Chapel. By Christmas, the vicar, Father Colin Pritchard, and his flock hope the largely-untouched South Aisle and the Lady Chapel will be back in use.

The message this week was: "Come and join us to worship God and to give thanks that no one was injured and that the building, at least in part, will soon be use."