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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7. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
This looks like the school hall. The building was absolutely destroyed. The photo shows how the roof collapsed | National World
8. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
The corridor leading to the steps to the school hall | National World
10. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
One of the offices in the aftermath | National World
11. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Firefighters at the scene. Photograph by Gazette reader Robert McDowell | Robert McDowell
12. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Aftermath of the fire as pictured above the stonework with the school name | National World