Bedfordshire Police are appealing for information after three fires were reported in Bedford in the early hours of Wednesday morning (18 June), including one that caused severe damage to the popular Longholme café on The Embankment.
The incidents took place between 12.50am and 1.15am, with fire crews first called at 12.21am to commercial bins near the Oasis Beach Pool on Cardington Road.
Shortly after, at 12.54am, a fire in a wheelie bin outside The Longholme café had spread to the building’s kitchen, causing what the café’s owners described as “significant back of house damages”.
Just one minute later, at 12.55am, a third fire was reported in rubbish on High Street.
Police are investigating all three fires. At this stage, officers have not said whether the incidents are being treated as linked, and no descriptions of any individuals being sought have been released.
Popular café forced to close
In a statement shared on social media, the Longholme café confirmed the fire was the result of an arson attack and said it would be forced to close temporarily.
“We are sad and sorry to need to inform you that last night, The Longholme was targeted by an arson attack that has led to significant back-of-house damages that will disrupt our operations for the short-term future,” the post read.
“The café will be temporarily closed. Please, please, continue to support our team and business by visiting us at The Kiosk Russell Park while a forward plan is finalised.
“With special thanks to Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, who, without their work last night, we would have no café at all.”
The Longholme is a much-loved independent café in Bedford, and news of the fire has sparked sadness and support from the local community, with customers expressing their shock and concern for the staff and business.
Police are urging anyone who saw or heard anything in the early hours of Wednesday morning to come forward.
Information can be reported online at: beds.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard or by calling 101, quoting reference 40/34460/25.
