Arson and assault arrest after flames take hold of hotel

Photo: Mark Carter, Manchester Today News

Assheton Arms Hotel on Market Place

A man has been arrested after a suspected arson attack resulted in a fire tearing through a Middleton hotel.

Emergency services rushed to the scene at the Assheton Arms Hotel on Market Place just after midnight on Sunday (15 September), and were left battling the fire through the early hours.

The arrested man, aged in his 30s, is being questioned by Greater Manchester Police officers on suspicion of arson and assault.

Several people were treated by North West Ambulance staff though Greater Manchester Police have said that no-one was injured.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “At around 12.15am on Sunday 15 September 2024, we were called to reports of a fire at a hotel on Market Place in Middleton, Rochdale.

“Emergency services attended and arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of arson and assault. He remains in police custody for questioning.

“Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, and investigations are ongoing.”

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “Shortly before 12:15am on Sunday (15th September 2024), eight fire engines from across Greater Manchester were called to the scene of a fire at a commercial building on Market Place, Middleton.

“Crews arrived quickly and worked overnight to extinguish the fire. Firefighters used six breathing apparatus, three hose reels, a thermal imaging camera and two nine metre ladders.

“All casualties were transferred into the care of North West Ambulance Service and one casualty has been conveyed to hospital. GMFRS were in attendance for around 16 hours.”