Police have released an image of two teenagers they want to speak to following a deliberate fire at a former Middlesbrough pub.
Cleveland Police is appealing for help to identify the two boys after the blaze at the former Doctor Browns pub, on Corporation Road, on Wednesday, August 19.
Officers received reports of a large fire at about 5.10pm, with nearby buildings evacuated as a precaution while firefighters tackled the flames.
Police believe access had been gained to the building, which has stood empty for some time, before the fire was deliberately started.
Images of the two boys Cleveland Police wish to speak to
(Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
As part of the ongoing investigation, officers have now released an image of two boys who they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
They are described as two white males, believed to be aged between 14 and 17, and police are asking anyone who recognises them or their clothing to come forward.
The latest appeal follows confirmation that the incident is being investigated as arson.
A fire at the former Doctor Browns in Middlesbrough
(Image: CONTRIBUTOR - SUE MURPHY)
Six fire engines from Middlesbrough, Stockton, Grangetown and Billingham were sent to Doctor Browns after Cleveland Fire Brigade was called at 5.08pm.
The brigade said the open-plan first floor suffered about 10 per cent fire damage and 30 per cent smoke damage. Firefighters used two jets, four sets of breathing apparatus and two thermal imaging cameras, with the stop message received at 6.25pm.
A fire at the former Doctor Browns in Middlesbrough
(Image: CONTRIBUTOR - MARK HAMPTON)
Detective Inspector Lee Bythway, from Middlesbrough CID, previously said an investigation was ongoing and appealed for anyone with information or footage to contact police.
Doctor Browns has been a prominent feature of Corporation Road since 1867 and was well known for hosting live music before closing in 2023.
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Plans had previously been announced to transform the building into the Pitch! Sports Bar, although that project was later moved to the former Bar Fresco site beneath the A66.
Last month, it was confirmed that a deal had been agreed for a new operator to take over the former pub.
Anyone who knows the identity of either boy, or recognises their clothing, should contact Cleveland Police on 101 quoting reference 166065.
Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.