POLICE have issued a statement following a large fire at a historic Bradford district building.

Firefighters from across the Bradford district scrambled to the former care home in the heart of the St Ives Estate just after 6.30pm on Tuesday. 

West Yorkshire Police told the Telegraph & Argus that a crime of arson has been recorded.

They added that enquiries are continuing with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service into the cause of the fire.

Full West Yorkshire Police statement

A spokesperson for the force said: "Enquires remain ongoing with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service into the cause of the fire and a crime of arson has been recorded. 

"Anyone who has information or saw suspicious activity at the location at around 6.30pm on Tuesday, March 5, is asked to contact Bradford CID on 101 or online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat referencing police crime reference 13240123883. 

"Information can also be given anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."