A derelict pub repeatedly targeted by arsonists has been set ablaze again after intruders forced their way past security boards on an external window.

A dog walker saw smoke and investigated before the fire on the ground floor of the Kings Head pub in Allerton Lane, Thornton, was able to develop and firefighters prevented it from spreading. Children were seen running away from the scene yesterday afternoon and firefighters have now issued a safety warning.

The pub, which has been empty for several years, has previously been targeted by firebugs.