Crooked House pub: Man and woman arrested over suspected arson

Police have made two further arrests as part of their investigation into the fire that destroyed the historic Crooked House pub in Himley, near Dudley.

A 34-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man, both from Leicestershire, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent or being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

Staffordshire Police said they had both been released on conditional police bail while the investigation continues.

A 66-year-old man, a 51-year-old man and a 33-year-old man, who were all previously arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life, remain on conditional police bail at this time.

"We are still asking those people who might have information which can help us to get in touch if they haven't already," Staffordshire Police said in a statement.

The Crooked House pub, once known as Britain's "wonkiest" inn, was built in the 18th century and became a tourist attraction after mining in the area caused the building to partially sink, allowing visitors to roll coins and marbles uphill along the bar.

It was sold by Marston's brewery to ATE Farms Limited in July but was destroyed in a fire on 5 August.

The remaining building was demolished, reportedly without council permission, two days later.

The loss of the landmark has sparked outrage in the local community and campaigners have called for it to be rebuilt from the more than 25,000 bricks recovered from the site.

Image: Stephen Clarke / Shutterstock