A POPULAR Preston community centre was partially destroyed by arsonists at the weekend.

Firefighters were called to Tanterton Community Centre, Kidsgrove, Ingol, on Saturday, at 1.30am, after a suspicious blaze started in the roof of the building.

The kitchen was destroyed and the ground floor of the building was also damaged by the fire.

Police and firefighters believe the blaze was started deliberately and involved a gas mains being tampered with.

Five engines attended the scene and police and fire chiefs are investigating the incident.

The community centre is managed by Preston City Council, through the city's Guild Hall leisure services, and is used by young people in the area.

There were no injuries.

People with information should call Preston police ion 01772 203203.