Arsonists set fire to a pub in the Black Country today causing severe damage.

Around 30 firefighters tackled the blaze in the early hours at The Mill in Beacon View Road, West Bromwich.

It is believed those responsible got into the empty pub through the fire escape and set fire to the bar and bench seating first. The flames  then spread.

Fire crews were called at 2am and remained at the scene until 5am, returning at 9am to dampen down the building. West Bromwich crew commander Tex Avery said the pub was believed to have closed down on Friday.

“There was nobody in there at the time,” Mr Avery said today. “It was a severe fire and the cellar, bar and residential area upstairs were badly damaged and smoke-logged. A neighbour called 999 and we initially thought there may be someone in there as there was a light on upstairs. But the pub was empty.”

Crews from West Bromwich, Walsall, Wednesbury and Tipton attended and 12 firefighters wearing  breathing equipment went inside.