YOUTHS are suspected of breaking into an old school and then making a fire with various materials they found inside.
Firefighters were called to the former Eden Boys School, in Cotton Street, Halliwell, just before 2pm today.
They tackled a blaze outside the school made of paper, books, building materials and 'general detritus' from around building.
The crew contacted Bolton Council's building control department who secured the old school following the break in and informed police. They were at the scene for an hour, although the fire itself was put on in about 20 minutes,
Watch manager Mark MacCourt said: "There were reports of young people hanging around and loitering around the premises and there was some evidence of them having attempted to get into the premises.
"Residents should call police if they notice any anti-social behaviour."
Anti-social behaviour can be reported to police on 101. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, or a crime is in progress.
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