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ARSONISTS who set an historic building in Strabane on fire last night have been described as ‘idiots’.
Firefighters were called out to the blaze at Milltown House, the former home of Strabane Grammar School, shortly before 11pm.
Police have confirmed they are treating the fire as deliberate.
No details have been released yet about the extent of the damage caused by the blaze, but it is believed to be significant.
There have been plans for Strabane Rugby Club to move to the Liskey Road site, which is currently owned by the Education Authority, and develop Milltown House as its clubhouse.
A spokesperson for the club said they are ‘devastated’ by last night’s fire.
It is not the first arson attack on the historic building and there have been previous calls for better security at the site.
West Tyrone SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan condemned those behind the latest vandalism attack.
Posting on Facebook, he said: “Why can’t some reckless selfish idiots not just leave property alone?
“They have to destroy everything – A huge amount of work and effort is ongoing to secure a future for this site.
“Many of us are working to improve this town. Local organisations and clubs have put in hours and hours of planning – then some complete waster comes along and sets a historic building like this on fire? Why?
“What is achieved by this? Nothing! Historic buildings up in smoke. If it’s not this school, it’s the Mill or something else! Leave these properties alone!!!”
The PSNI are appealing for anyone with information about last night’s attack to contact them.
“Police remain at the scene following the fire this morning, Friday 22nd August, which at this stage is being treated as deliberate,” said a PSNI spokesperson.
“Enquiries are continuing following the incident and police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the fire, to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 1892 21/08/25.
“A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.
“Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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