A number of redeveloped Derry apartments have been left in ruins after being struck by an early morning blaze yesterday.

The newly renovated homes are believed to have been the victim of an arson attack.

Fire crew battled with the fire at the four-story building on Crawford Street after midnight.

-- Advertisement --

Fire and Rescue Service station Commander Mark Darall said the door at the back of the empty building had been forced open.

He said: "After investigating, we are very sure the fire was deliberate.

"The building had been broken into from the rear and the way the fire was set meant it was very heavily damaged by the smoke."

(PR/JM)