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Police are investigating a suspected arson attack at the Bancourt hotel in Torquay.
A fire broke out in the basement of the hotel in the early hours of Sunday (23 April), and some 80 guests were evacuated from the premises with three sustaining minor injuries.
They were taken to Torbay District Hospital – one with a cut arm and the other two for smoke inhalation.
All of the guests were given overnight accommodation at the Riviera International Conference Centre. Over 100 guests, all Young Farmers, were staying at the hotel for a conference.
Detective sergeant Andy Penhaligon of Torquay CID, said: “We are treating this incident as arson. Fortunately there were only three minor injuries but this reckless and purposeful action could have had far more serious, even fatal, consequences.
“Further enquiries are continuing to establish the exact circumstances of the fire and we are appealing to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity or individual in or around the hotel at the time of the offence to contact us.
“I would pay credit to the firefighters and police officers, plus the hotel owners and staff, whose swift actions and partnership work ensured the safety of guests and members of the public, as well as the local community, Torbay Council and Street Pastors who provided tremendous support to the evacuated guests.”
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them on 101@dc.police.uk or by phone on 101, quoting crime reference CR/030215/17.
