Police are investigating after an unused chapel was the target of a suspected arson attack in a North Yorkshire village.
Officers from North Yorkshire Police were called to the building in Nether Silton, near Thirsk, at about 11.50pm on Monday, June 9, following reports of a fire.
Due to the heavy smoke and potential for asbestos within the smoke, residents on the street were evacuated by police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue until the blaze was fully brought under control.
Emergency services have since confirmed that there were no injuries during the incident.
North Yorkshire Police have launched an investigation and are now appealing for information relating to the suspected arson attack.
A spokesperson for the police force said: "Following an extensive investigation, we're appealing for information from the public on an arson in Thirsk.
"At 11.51pm on Monday, June 9, we were called to report an arson attack on two vehicles and an unused chapel in Nether Silton.
"Thankfully, there were no injuries as a result of the fires.
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"We have been undertaking an extensive investigation into this, working alongside North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, and are now appealing for information from the public to support with our lines of enquiry.
"If you have any information on this incident, please email tom.bowman@northyorkshire.police.uk.
"Alternatively, you can call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for PC Tom Bowman, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
"Please quote reference 12250104133 when passing on information."
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