A CRIMINAL investigation is underway into the inferno that ripped through Sidmouth’s derelict Fortfield Hotel last month.

A CRIMINAL investigation is underway into the inferno that ripped through Sidmouth’s derelict Fortfield Hotel last month.

Detectives and police officers are hunting the culprit who caused chaos when flames erupted on December 30.

The blaze was this week labelled “a fire of doubtful origin” as Honiton CID members worked with Sidmouth officers on a probe to land the offender.

Fire experts scoured the scene and have come up with possible causes, Police Sergeant Andy Turner told the Herald.

PS Turner said those possible causes could not yet be revealed as they formed a crucial part of an ongoing investigation.

He said several people have already been eliminated from police enquiries.

“We’re still very keen to speak to anybody who saw people in the area and around the building during the day. We have already had a lot of people come forward. They do not need to contact us again if we have already spoken to them,” he said.

“I’m unable to comment on the fire officer’s report as it forms part of our investigation.”

Contact police with information on 08452 777444, crime reference: KS/11/16.