Police are treating the fire that engulfed the Knowle last week as arson.

The fire tore through the derelict former HQ of East Devon District Council early on Thursday, March 30, leaving the building severely damaged. It is thought to have started at about 2.30am.

A week later (Thursday, April 6) Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that they believe the fire was started deliberately.

They have also revealed that they are investigating sightings of a man near the building on Sunday, March 26 - the same day that another, smaller, fire was reported at the site. It was extinguished by the fire service with little damage being caused.

The man seen nearby is described as white, in his early 20s, of medium build with dark hair, and was wearing camouflage trousers.

Police are investigating both incidents which they believe may be linked, and are appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area to contact them.

If you witnessed the incident or have any information or dashcam footage that could help with enquiries, contact police via their website or by calling 101 quoting 50230073429.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.