RESIDENTS living near the Shaftesbury Pub in Swindon say the arson attack which severely damaged the building this week was inevitable.

Since it shut two years ago the bar and restaurant in Park South has become a magnet for vandals and troublemakers.

Children have been getting into the Swindon Council-owned property, in Shaftesbury Avenue, and starting small fires in recent weeks.

But on Monday 45 firefighters were needed to tackle a blaze which started just before 7pm.

Minutes beforehand, children were seen playing on the roof.

The blaze started in the bar but soon spread between the suspended ceiling and the roof. Fire crews found smoke pouring from the building.

There were fears children could have been trapped in the building and giant fans were used to suck out smoke while firefighters searched but no one was found.

Although the incident was under control within two hours officers remained at the scene until 11am yesterday making sure the debris did not catch fire again.

Now Swindon Services has been asked to bring in a demolition crew.

Demolition experts examined the site yesterday.

Since it closed, youngsters have covered the building with graffiti, and the site is strewn with litter.

Ellen Cooper, 51, who lives opposite, said: "I cannot understand why it was left derelict for so long.

"It's just a sitting target for kids and we are always hearing windows being smashed there.

"Fire engines are always being called out, which is a drain on their resources.

"It's also a revolting eyesore that is affecting local house prices."

Tina Donachie, 41, of nearby Midhurst Avenue, who worked at the pub said: "It was a shame it closed because it was very popular but it has just been left to decay."

Swindon Council was unable to comment on why the building had not been demolished sooner.

Police and fire officers are investigating the cause of the blaze.

Anyone with information is asked to call 01793 528111.

Tamash Lal