Third arrest in Crooked House pub fire investigation

Two people previously detained and questioned after blaze at ‘Britain’s wonkiest pub’

Ruins of the Crooked House pub
The ruins of the Crooked House pub Credit: Getty Images Europe/Christopher Furlong

A third man has been arrested in relation to the Crooked House pub fire, police said.

The wonky 18th-century free house fell victim to a suspected arson attack on Aug 5 and was demolished without permission two days later, according to South Staffordshire council. Campaigners are calling for it to be rebuilt.

Staffordshire Police confirmed on Thursday that a 51-year-old man from Buckingham had been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He has since been released on bail while the force continues its investigation.

Two men were arrested last month on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life following the fire at the pub in Himley, near Dudley, Staffordshire Police said. The men, aged 66 and 33, were questioned by officer.

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A police spokesman said: “We would like to thank everyone who has already come forward with important information about this investigation and those who are continuing to engage positively with officers.

“We understand that speculation is still widespread, both locally and online. We’d like to reiterate that we are working hard to get through an extensive list of enquiries at this time.”

It comes as a “security guard” for the Crooked House has been camping outside the site for around two weeks to protect its bricks and rubble.

Rob Brown, 57, said that he has taken up temporary residence at the pub to stop “any actions” that might hinder its rebuilding. He has been using his camper van to vet approaching vehicles at the gate, and said local people have kept him fed and watered.

Mr Brown has also claimed that he has successfully used his van to block cranes and dumper trucks entering the site.