THREE ARRESTED AFTER FIRE CLOSES PAIGNTON RAILWAY STATION

Three boys aged 13, 15 and 16 have been arrested on suspicion of arson following a fire at Paignton railway station on Tuesday, 21 July. British Transport Police said the arrests were made on the evening of 21 July in the Paignton area, and all three were released on conditional bail whilst enquiries continue. The fire broke out at approximately 5.45am and caused significant damage to the station's signalling system and infrastructure. No injuries were reported.

The blaze forced Paignton station to close, halting all rail services to and from the location. National Rail confirmed that damage to the signalling system and surrounding infrastructure rendered the line impassable between Torquay and Paignton. As an interim measure, trains serving Paignton stopped at Newton Abbot and Exeter St Davids, with additional services running between Newton Abbot and Torquay whilst repairs proceeded.

British Transport Police appealed for information from the public to assist the ongoing investigation. Members of the public were asked to contact police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 73 of 21 July. Anonymous information could be provided to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Officers responded to the incident alongside Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service after being called at 6am on 21 July.