The Beeches pub in Northfield goes up in flames

Jun 10 2008 Submitted by Andrew Blount

BIRMINGHAM Mail reader Andrew Blount was on hand with his camera when an old Birmingham pub went up in flames.

Residents of Northfield were woken by 12 fire trucks and over 50 firemen dealing with the blaze at the now-derelict The Beeches in Merritts Brook Lane.

Andrew said: "It had been closed for some 12 months and had been a common play area for the local young kids. Vandalism has been rife and this was the third time in a week the old pub was set on fire.

"It is thought by residents that the fires have been started deliberately but this is only speculation. One thing is for sure, 'Last Orders' have certainly been served at this once welcoming and friendly pub."