Appeal for information following suspected arson in Handbridge

Officers investigating reports of arson at a historic site in Handbridge are appealing for information and witnesses.

At around 2.20pm on Thursday 20th August, officers from the Rural Crime Team were notified to reports of a deliberate fire at the Minerva Shrine, a Scheduled monument and Grade I listed building near Edgar Place, Chester.

It is believed the fire occurred between Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th  August. Luckily the shrine has not sustained any significant damage.

As part of enquiries into the incident, officers are now appealing to anyone with any information to contact police.

PC Jono Lightfoot, of the Rural Crime Team, said:

“The Minerva Shrine is a very import piece of our history, and it is sad that someone has chosen to light a fire which could have potentially destroyed it.

“Heritage crime is treated very seriously here in Cheshire and we would like the public to help us in identifying who is responsible for this.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Cheshire Police via the website, or on 101, quoting incident reference number 26000682633.”

Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on: 0800 555 111.