Thank you for your interest in this story
To continue reading this article, subscribe to the Stray Ferret for as little as £1 a week
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
08
Oct
Investigation into suspected arson at Knaresborough pub still ongoing
Investigations are still ongoing into a suspected arson which devastated a Knaresborough pub — 18 months after the blaze.
The Cricketers on Thistle Hill in Calcutt burnt down on April 1, 2025, after fire ripped through the building in the early hours of the morning.
Six fire crews tackled the blaze, which one local resident described as “like something from War of the Worlds”.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire had caused "100% damage" to the building, and destroyed the roof.
The aerial ladder platform in action during the blaze. Pic: Gene Clifton.
However, no injuries were reported as a result of the blaze.
In a statement at the time, North Yorkshire Police said officers and firefighters believed the fire had been started deliberately, and a woman was arrested on suspicion of arson.
She was later released on bail.
The Stray Ferret asked the force this week if anyone had been charged following the blaze. However, a spokesperson said there were no updates in the case.
An artist's impression of the new development on the site of The Cricketers, in Calcutt, near Knaresborough.
Phoenix from Ashes?
The building has remained a shell alongside the cricket pitch since the blaze.
However, the Stray Ferret revealed yesterday (October 7) that plans have now been revealed to demolish and rebuild the pub.
Marstons, which owned The Cricketers, sold the property to “a buyer from the local community” five months after the fire.
Plans submitted by The Ashes Pub Company to North Yorkshire Council would see the existing buildings demolished to make way for a pub, convenience store and apartment block.
An outline application has also been submitted to build two three-bedroom houses on the site.
The council will make a decision on the proposals at a later date.
0