Ryde Theatre fire investigated as arson

A fire broke out at the derelict Ryde Theatre and Ryde Town Hall on Lind Street during the early hours of Wednesday night/Thursday morning. Approximately 35 firefighters from across the Isle of Wight, including crews from Ryde, Newport, Sandown, Shanklin, Cowes, and East Cowes, attended the scene to tackle the blaze, which had broken through the roof.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has informed the police that the fire is believed to have been started deliberately. Witnesses reported seeing youths entering the secured building earlier in the night. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is investigating the incident as arson.

Local residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to heavy smoke. While Lind Street has since reopened, Market Street remained closed following the incident. Firefighters worked through the night to dampen hotspots and monitor the historic architectural site.