Local fire crews battle arson attack on hotel

Three South Hams fire crews attended a large arson fire at a Torquay hotel. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were called to Trecarn Hotel, Torquay, at 11.30pm on Sunday night, 25 September. 

The blaze ended up involving 12 fire engines, including engines from Totnes, Ivybridge and Buckfastleigh, an Environmental Protection Unit, one aerial ladder platform and an incident command unit.

Devon and Cornwall Police and South Western Ambulance Service were also on the scene but no injuries were reported. 

This afternoon, police released a statement that fire investigators "believed that this fire was started deliberately", there is now an investigation into the cause and they are appealing for witnesses. 

Detective Inspector Dave Pebworth said: “Over 120 guests had to be evacuated during the incident but thankfully no-one was seriously injured.

“A major response from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue ensured that this fire didn’t have fatal consequences, but a serious amount of damage and disruption was caused and those responsible must be identified.

“Following advice from fire investigators, it is believed that this fire was started deliberately, and police are appealing for witnesses.

“We would like to hear from anyone who was in the area and saw anything suspicious between the times of 10:30pm on Sunday 25 September, and half past midnight on Monday 26 September.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. quoting crime reference CR/089139/22.

Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

126 guests were evacuated and relocated to other hotels. 

The hotel consists of three floors 80m by 20m, and the fire involved the first floor and roof area. Three rooms were destroyed by fire, and the hallway and lobby area was damaged by smoke.