A charred skeleton was all that remained of the school which had been a landmark at the heart of the community for more than a century. Ten fire engines from across Lancashire assisted in tackling the fire. Fortunately it was during the school holidays and nobody was hurt. Two boys were charged with arson and the school was rebuilt. These pictures remember the devastating event.
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1. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
When the flames were at their height. Picture Credit-Christian Blake
2. Devonshire Road School fire 2003
The view from a distance. Photograph by Gazette reader Robert McDowell
3. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Fire Safety Officer Tony Robinson looks at the burnt out remains of Devonshire Road School. It was suggested that the school may have been saved in the fire if a sprinkler system had been fitted
6. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Mangled windows and exposed brickwork following the intense fire