Offices on a Black Country industrial estate have been gutted in an arson attack.

Security proved a hindrance rather than a help for firefighters, as they struggled to get into the site.

Crews were called to Leys Industrial estate, in Leys Road, Brockmoor, just after 11pm yesterday.

Arsonists targeted three converted storage units, which were used as offices on the estate.

Fire crews arrived to find the offices well alight – and their way blocked by a series of gates. Attempts to cut padlocks failed and crews had to wait for a keyholder.

By the time the crews were able to reach the units the flames had taken hold.

Firefighter Pete Walters, of Brierley Hill fire station, said: “When we were able to get to them we extinguished the blaze, but they were completely gutted.”

He confirmed the blaze was being treated as arson.