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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13. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Devonshire Road School fire - the hall | National World
14. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Some of the books and equipment rescued from the fire | National World
15. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
At the scene as firefighters battled to extinguish flames | Phill Heywood
16. Devonshire Road School fire
The aftermath of the fire. Chairs could not be salvaged | submit
17. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
Twisted metal and charred wood in the aftermath of the fire | Submit
18. Devonshire Road School fire, 2003
In the cold light of day this is how the school looked after the flames died down | National World