Arson Attack Causes Extensive Damage to Walton Sports and Social Club

A fire at Walton Sports and Social Club in Wakefield on Friday caused extensive damage to the lounge and tap room. The club's committee said the blaze was started deliberately and has caused "devastating" damage. No one was injured in the fire.

The club, which has been operating since the 1960s as a local miners' welfare, has launched a crowdfunder to help with the recovery and said it has been overwhelmed by the response. Trophies and memorabilia dating back to the 1960s were also damaged in the fire.

Detective Inspector Steve Sayles of West Yorkshire Police said the attack was targeted and could have been "significantly worse". Police have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the investigation. The fire was started by a man who arrived on a bike at 03:40 GMT on Friday 6 November and had visited for a "recce" at about 01:40. Police are appealing for additional CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from the area between 01:00 and 04:00, and are also keen to speak to residents near the path between Shay Lane and the golf club.