'Malicious' fire at Bristol sports pavilion may have been deliberate

There were reports of two people running away from the scene yesterday evening. Credit: Colin Sutton

A huge fire that broke out at a Bristol sports pavilion may have been started deliberately, according to police.

Blackhorse Road Pavilion is home to Mangotsfield Junior FC and AFC Mangotsfield, and over 30 football teams from U5 - Adult.

All will now have to find alternative venues.

Emergency services were called to the blaze yesterday evening (22 October) at the pavilion in the Vinny Green playing fields, in Emersons Green.

Two people were reportedly seen running from the area after a wooden water tower was on fire on top of the clubhouse.

Pictures posted on social media show huge plumes of smoke and flames coming from the building on Dibden Lane.

A crowdfunding campaign has been set up by the chairman of Mangotsfield Junior FC to help repair some of the damage. Credit: Colin Sutton

Colin Sutton, chairman of Mangotsfield Junior FC, says the building is "vital" for community groups and sports teams who use the pavilion daily.

He says: "This act of melicious criminal damage could potentially ruin the football environment of hundreds of boys, girls, seniors and volunteers at the club."

A crowdfunding campaign has been set up by Mr Sutton to help with the cost of repairing the damage.

Future events, including a planned fundraiser in the next few weeks, has had to be cancelled as a result of the blaze.