THREE youths have been arrested in connection with an arson attack on a derelict bingo hall in the centre of Stockton.

Pubs, cafes, shops and flats on the High Street were evacuated on Thursday as smoke billowed from the Mecca Bingo Hall.

Between 40 and 50 Army fire fighters fought the blaze from the outside of the building, while two RAF teams entered the roof to help extinguish the fire.

The three youths, all male aged 12, 14 and 15, will be interviewed by police today.