Arsonists target two empty pubs

Arsonists targeted two former Black Country pubs in the space of a few hours.

Intruders broke into The Black Horse, in Walsall, and sparked a blaze in the upstairs bedroom of the building last night, closing a busy junction for almost two hours.

The roof of The Falcon, in Messenger Road, Smethwick, was damaged in a fire that broke out today.

In Walsall police shut off the area at the junction of Bloxwich Road and Harden Road, in Leamore, as crews battled the fire, which broke out at 6pm yesterday.

Bloxwich fire station commander Shaun Dakin said: "Somebody had broken in and set fire to the residential area on the first floor.

"When we arrived flames were just starting to come out of the window. Most of the damage is inside."

Sammy-Jo Burlton, aged 21, who was driving home from work when she passed by, said: "At least two arson investigation and fire vans arrived, three fire engines were on site and three police vehicles."

Meanwhile, The Falcon was targeted at around 3.45am.

The pub, which is now owned by Sandwell Council has been shut for two weeks and is set to be bulldozed.

Debbie Jarrett, 45, who was licensee for 10 years, said today: "It is so shocking."