20 firefighters tackle blaze as arsonists target derelict Dudley pub
Twenty firefighters were sent to tackle a blaze at a derelict pub in the Black Country which is thought to have started deliberately.
The fire broke out at the pub formerly known as the Metro Bar and Joe Darby in Dudley town centre at around 8.16am on Friday morning.
Four fire engines were sent to the scene on the corner of Trindle Road and Porters Field, arriving within five minutes.
Trindle Road was shut as a result, with buses diverted until the road was reopened at around 10.15am.
The pub has been empty for around two decades and has been targeted by arsonists on several occasions.
A spokesman for the fire service said: "We were called at 08.16am and arrived within five minutes of the call.
"Appliances from Dudley, Brierly Hill, Oldbury and Tipton stations are in attendance and the road was closed off to keep the public safe and has since been reopened.
"We believe the fire was started deliberately and our crews remain in attendance."
