Two boys have been arrested following a fire at a former restaurant near Leeds

The fire broke out at the former Thaal restaurant on the Great North Road in Brotherton, near Selby, on Monday evening.

Fire crews remained at the restaurant on Tuesday. | Yorkshire Evening Post

Photos from the scene show much of the building’s roof destroyed, as firefighters secured the building on Tuesday morning.

North Yorkshire Police said the two boys, aged 12 and 15, were both arrested on suspicion of arson and remained in custody at the time of publication.

Officers have not ruled out further arrests.

A spokesperson said: “No reports of any injuries or missing people have been received, however, a full search of the property will be carried out once it is safe to do so.

The aftermath of the fire. | Yorkshire Evening Post

“Officers have warned that deliberately setting fires is a serious criminal offence that puts lives at risk and can cause devastating damage to homes, businesses, vehicles and the environment.

“Even a small fire can quickly spread, placing firefighters, emergency workers and members of the public in danger.

“Anyone with information about last night’s fire should call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and pass information from incident number 12260185851.”