Police probe into deliberate fire at 'landmark' former Bullfrog Bar and Lounge pub in Motherwell

Police are investigating a deliberate fire that destroyed a former pub in Motherwell.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews rushed to the old Bullfrog Bar and Lounge on Shields Road on Sunday at around 3.48pm following reports of a fire.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze safely and there were no reports of any injuries.

Images and footage on social media showed huge clouds of smoke billowing from the roof of the building as crews worked to extinguish the flames.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who saw anything suspicious to come forward.

Detective constable Heather Gorman of Wishaw CID said: “Thankfully nobody has been injured as a result of this reckless act.

“We are treating the fire as deliberate and are asking anyone with any information to come forward and speak to officers.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and who saw anything suspicious to contact us.

“I would also appeal to anyone who was driving in the area around the time and who may have dash-cam footage which could assist to get in touch.”

It was announced in November last year that the establishment would close over rising costs.

In a statement at the time, the owners wrote: “Our time is just about up, l’m afraid. We have to close the doors as we can no longer compete with energy costs spiralling out of control.

“We had hoped to continue to trade until a buyer for the business, or building, had been found but alas we just cannot afford the electricity costs.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 2237 of April 16, 2023. Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.