LISTEN: 100 children evacuated during "deliberate" blaze at residential centre near Mournes

By Brett Campbell

Around 100 young people were evacuated from a residential centre in Newcastle after a "deliberate" fire broke out yesterday evening. 

Over 20 firefighters and four appliances were dispatched to YMCA Greenhill in Donard Park just before 7pm.  

No one was injured in the blaze which was restricted to an empty log cabin outhouse.  

Centre director Kenny Baxter says he's thankful it wasn't worse.     

He rushed to the scene when he heard what had happened. 

"This is an old wooden hut and is removed from the residential accommodation," he explained. 

"But we have procedures in place and everyone was evacuated and a full head count was done.

"Once the fire was under control they were allowed back in." 

Police are appealing for information following the fire which is believed to have been started deliberately at the outdoor recreational centre.  

Sergeant McIlveen said: “The fire, reported just before 7pm, was at a log cabin, used as a shelter or relaxation-type area.  

“Officers attended, along with colleagues from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service. 

“Unfortunately the cabin has been completely destroyed by the fire, which is believed to have been started deliberately.

“Thankfully, there are no reports of injuries and no damage to the nearby main property.

“We are appealing to anyone with information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1541 of 22/02/20.

"Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."