Restaurant targeted by arsonist twice in two days: Grand Parade, Polegate
(BN26 - Friday, 20 March, 2009)

Police are linking two arson attacks on an Asian restaurant in Polegate over the weekend.

At 10.15pm on Friday 13th March 2009 the Viceroy Asian restaurant at Grand Parade, Polegate, was subject to an arson attack.

An unknown man threw a bottle with a lit rag through the window in the front door, which landed in the porch.

The incident caused limited damage, all of which was contained within the porch.

On the following evening a second incident occurred at 2am (15th March) at the same restaurant.

On this occasion a front window was smashed and flammable liquid followed by lit firelighters was thrown in.

The restaurant was empty, but the staff upstairs heard the smash and rushed down to put the fire out.

Damage was caused to the carpet, a number of tables and some chairs.

On the second occasion the offender was seen and is described as:

• mid twenties
• about 5''10" tall
• wearing a dark coloured hooded top and cream coloured trousers

DI Neil Ralph said:

"There are no obvious motives for the arson attacks and we are keeping an open mind as to whether or not they are racially motivated.

"A vehicle was heard to speed off after the first attack and we believe it may be connected."

Anyone who has any information should call detectives on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Sussex

Address:
Viceroy Asian restaurant
Grand Parade
Polegate
SUSSEX
BN26