Arson attack on Middleton curry house

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Exotic Spice, Market Place, Middleton

A large fire at a Middleton curry house is being treated as an arson attack by police.

Officers were called to Exotic Spice, Market Place, at 8.30am this morning (Monday 15 February) after fire crews alerted to them to a “deliberate” fire at the outhouse behind the restaurant.

Three fire engines were called to the scene and reported that the outhouse, as well as part of the rear of the restaurant building was “well alight”. Crews were on site for six hours extinguishing the fire and working with police on an investigation.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 8.26am to find that the outhouse and part of the back of the building was well alight.

“There were three vehicles from Chadderton, Heywood and Blackley who came to the scene with break-in equipment, breathing apparatuses and lights”.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “The fire service believe the fire to be a deliberate ignition so the police then got involved.

“We have since obtained some witnesses and we have some strong leads. Officers are still looking though CCTV footage, and we will be speaking to people accordingly”.

The road was closed for a short time but has now reopened.