Young arsonists are believed to be responsible for a dramatic town centre blaze.
Dozens of shoppers watched as firemen fought to contain the fire in Clacton.
Choking acrid smoke from the burning building engulfed nearby streets and flames could be seen leaping high into the sky.
Damping down - firefighters train water in to the roof of the fire-hit covered storage area in Colne Road. Picture: NIGEL BROWN
The town centre at Clacton was crowded with shoppers and day-trippers when the blaze broke out just before 11.30am on Saturday.
The fire was in a building used for storage at the back of the Rocking Horse Bar and there were fears it could spread into adjoining buildings, including a garage.
No-one was injured but a number of furnishings, including a piano, were extensively damage.
Clacton and Weeley firemen, who rushed to the scene in Colne Road, were praised for their swift action.
Mr Smith confirmed the fire was being treated as suspicious.
Police issued the descriptions of two young teenagers they want to interview.
One was aged about 14 and about 5ft 5in tall, with light-coloured hair and buck teeth. He was said to be wearing a peaked hat with possibly a red hooded top.
The other was said to be about 13 years old, shorter, wearing a new-style white England T- shirt.
Anyone who might have seen the youths either before or after the fire is asked to contact the police at Clacton on 01255 221312.
One person has been arrested in connection with the fire and released on police bail until June 28.
Published Monday, June 2, 2003
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