THERE was an intent to endanger life police believe after the suspected arson attack on Ivy Lane school in Chippenham yesterday as more teenagers have been arrested.

They are appealing for witnesses after the blaze at Ivy Lane Primary School, near to the town centre, at around 12.10pm on Monday April 15.

Det Sgt Adam Fleetwood-Brown said: "We are treating this incident as arson with intent to endanger life and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed a group of teenagers in the vicinity of Ivy Lane Primary School at lunch time yesterday. We believe they ran off along the alleyway near to Providence Terrace following the incident. 

"I'd like to take this opportunity to urge parents to be mindful of their children's whereabouts during the school holidays. I know that the majority of young children will be enjoying their Easter break safely and would never consider behaving in such a mindless way - I do not want the recklessness of a small group of individuals to ruin things for others. 

"It is incredibly fortunate that nobody was hurt during this incident as there were children at the school at the time taking part in a holiday club - luckily they were all evacuated quickly and safely.

"The damage caused to the roof of the building is substantial and will be costly and inconvenient to repair.

"The school is located in a busy area of the town, and I would urge anyone who was in the area at the time, including any drivers with dash cam footage, to please get in touch."

It is believed the fire was started in a bush, near to the main road, but spread to a school building causing damage to the roof. 

Meanwhile three local teenage boys - one aged 14 and two aged 15 - have been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. One of the 15-year-olds has been released with no further action, while the other two have been released on police bail while further enquiries are carried out. 

Anyone who may be able to assist should call 101 and quote log number 118 of April 15. 

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.