DESPITE an initial statement that they were unable to discover the cause of a blaze at Lakeside shopping centre on Sunday, work by firefighters has now highlighted suspicious circumstances and police have responded by arresting a 17-year-old boy from Grays.

The fire, which included the sight of flames shooting from the roof, occured in the stairwell of a multi-story car park, shortly before 3pm on Sunday (7 July).

The subsequent fire service investigation revealed suspicious circumstances around the incident and police were alerted.

Its officers attended and conducted enquiries around CCTV and forensic opportunities at the scene.

As a result of this work, a 17-year-old boy, from Grays, was arrested on suspicion of arson.

He was questioned and released on bail with conditions attached while enquiries continue.

Sergeant Amelia Moore, of Thurrock Community Policing Team, said: "We are aware of the public concern connected to this fire and we have worked hard with our fire service colleagues to investigate the cause.

"We maintain a presence at Lakeside throughout the year and will continue to work with partners to ensure visitors to this busy shopping centre feel safe."

"We would urge anyone with information which could assist us to get in touch. 

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website where you can use our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit https://www.essex.police.uk/digital101to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please cite incident reference number 42/103953/24."