FIREFIGHTERS believe a blaze at a disused Little Hulton pub was started deliberately.

The Lancastrian, in Kenyon Way, is understood to have closed last month and has been boarded up.

When firefighters were called at about 11pm last night there was evidence of a break-in.

Crew members had to wear breathing apparatus to battle the blaze, which was concentrated in the lounge area.

The building was so well sealed that little smoke escaped and it is thought the fire had burned for some time before it was spotted.

There was extensive damage to the former pub's lounge area, with smoke damage to the rest of the building.