THE ILMINSTER recreation ground toilet block has gone up in flames in a suspected early-morning arson attack in two blazes which are believed to be linked.

Police and fire services were first called to the blaze in the early hours of Sunday morning.

An abandoned Honda moped was set on fire and left in a walkway between two parts of the building and the flames started to spread to the nearby toilet block.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called to the incident at around 1.15am, and three fire engines were sent to tackle the blaze.

One hose reel jet, a covering jet, a triple extension ladder and thermal image camera were used to put the fire out.

The motorcycle was completely destroyed by the fire, and the building was 10 per cent damaged by radiated heat and smoke.

Police were called to the incident at around 1.40am, and are treating itthe incident as deliberate.

Then, later in the morning, fire crews were again called to Canal Way shortly before 6am.

One fire engine from Ilminster and one from Chard attended reports of smoke coming from a toilet block in a recreational area. When they arrived, smoke and flames were coming from the toilet block and the roof was on fire.

A third fire engine from Chard was called to help.

Crews put the fire out using four breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets and ladders.

The incident support unit from Yeovil was also requested for extra breathing apparatus cylinders.

A fire investigation is currently under way.

It is currently believed that the second fire was as a result of flames getting inside the toilet block and reigniting at around 5am.

Police were also called to attend the second fire.

Linda Piggot-Vijeh, county councillor for Ilminster, said she was upset by the incident.

Cllr Piggot-Vijeh said: “I am aware but have no further details.

“I understand that it was started deliberately and I am disappointed that a few anti-social people spoil things for everyone else.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information that may help police is urged to call 101 quoting reference 5216151211.