Harlech hotel fire was started deliberately

It has now been confirmed by fire investigators that a blaze which destroyed part of a derelict hotel in Gwynedd was the victim of an arson attack.

The fire at Ffordd Newydd in Harlech on the 20th of November caused substantial damage to the building, with the destruction of a store room adding to the severe smoke damage in the hallway.

This “serious crime” was condemned by North Wales fire service’s John Morgan who explained:

“Deliberate fires are a serious form of anti-social behaviour and this will not be tolerated.

“North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is working closely with the police and other partner agencies to try and eradicate the problem.

“These deliberate incidents are putting extra pressure on fire and rescue resources.

“Whilst crews are busy dealing with these incidents, there could be a real need for the resources to attend a life-threatening situation elsewhere in the county.

“Deliberate fires are a serious crime and, in conjunction with North Wales Police, we will pursue convictions.”

Firefighters from across the region, with crews from Harlech, Caernarfon, Porthmadog, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Pwllheli and Rhyl, called to the incident on the Saturday afternoon and they managed to bring the situation under control in less than four hours.