Arsonists set fire to a former cinema and community centre in Littleport.

Firefighters from Littleport and Ely were called to the Regal, in Hempfield Road, shortly before 9am on Sunday.

The cause of the blaze is believed to be a chair which was set on fire by offenders between 8am and 9am.

Detective Constable Peter Ware said: “Thankfully no one was hurt, however this is a serious incident and members of the public should be reminded of the potential dangers fire can cause.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen this incident happen or anyone who may have been in the area at the time to pass on information.”

A spokesman for Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “A fire broke out on the ground floor of a building that is under renovation and measured 15m by 30m. “Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel to extinguish the fire and used positive pressure ventilation fans to clear smoke from the property.”

The Regal is currently subject of a planning application, with the building’s owners looking to redevelop the site into homes.

An investigation revealed that the cause of the fire was deliberate.

Anyone with information should contact the police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.