Forensic experts study blaze hotel evidence

A crack forensic squad from London which was brought in after fire gutted the derelict Grand Hotel a fortnight ago has taken away evidence for analysis.

Inspector Max Mosley vowed in the aftermath of the inferno that everyone who had contacted police on the night would be seen.

He said on Wednesday: "We have spoken to literally dozens of witnesses.

"We have got one of two good leads.

"But clearly this is a very serious inquiry. It will involve a vast amount of footwork on our part.

"From now on it is just a question of keeping our nose to the grindstone and sifting through everything we have.

"The national forensic people have been involved.

"A range of materials have been taken away for examination. It looks as if there were at least three or four seats of fire in the front of the building."