An investigation has been launched after arsonists caused extensive damage to fhe historic Dunston Staiths in Gateshead. 

Emergency services were alerted at around 2.10am that the Grade II listed monument was alight.

A spokesperson for the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called to a fire at the Dunston Staiths at about 2.10am this morning.

"Two fire appliances and a fireboat attended the scene and brought the fire under control. They left the scene at about 5am."

But the fire flared up again and firefighters returned at 6.50am.

The spokesperson added: "Three appliances and a fire boat attended the scene. They left again at 11.40am.

The Dunston Staiths Fire Restoration Appeal posted on its Facebook page: "It's devastating to have to say that our unique and much loved Dunston Staiths fell victim to a serious fire in the early hours of this morning, which had clearly been started deliberately.

"It is soul destroying for those of us who've worked so hard in recent years to see it restored and open for the public to enjoy.

"The damage to the restored upper deck is extensive. This abhorrent act of mindless vandalism on a Grade 2 listed structure, which is the only one of its kind remaining, just leaves me lost for words.

"After a long night, being there to assist the fire crews, who were just amazing and dealing with the police I'm home briefly to take stock. If anyone saw, heard or knows anything, please contact the police or you can message me privately too. Those responsible need to be caught.

"The fire was most likely lit sometime between midnight to 2am ish as it was well alight when the call was put through."

Detective Inspector Andy Gimza said: "This fire has caused a significant amount of damage to this historic monument.

“This incident sadly comes after months of fundraising to restore the structure following a fire in 2019.

"At present we’re treating this as a deliberate act of vandalism, so a criminal investigation has been launched.

"If you saw anyone suspicious in the area of the Staiths late Friday night or early Saturday morning, please get in touch.

“We’re also appealing to local residents who may have CCTV installed to check their devices.

"Any piece of information, no matter how small, could allow us to establish the facts of this case." Anyone with information is asked to visit the ‘Report an Incident’ section of our website, quoting reference number 107 160520 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.