Police and fire investigators were today searching through the remains of Basildon's most popular pie shop after it was gutted by arsonists.
Firefighters were alerted after a call from a member of the public at around 3.45am today, saying they could see flames inside Stacey Pie Shop at the corner of Timberlog Lane and Stacey's Corner.
Two appliances from Basildon fire station, along with two back-up vehicles from Corringham fire, raced to the scene after being alerted to sleeping residents in the four-storey building.
Station officer Doug Sylvester of Basildon white watch said: "The caller used a mobile phone said there were flats above the shop and our fear was the smoke rising and choking them.
"We sent in two crew using breathing apparatus, letting people know what was going on but urging them to keep doors closed.
"Fortunately we were able to get the fire under control within 15 minutes.
"It was obvious to us it was arson."
Published Tuesday, January 7, 2003
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