ARSONISTS are believed to be behind a fire at a tanning salon in Saltney.
Fire and police officers have called on the public to help them trace two men in connection with a fire at Ultrasun, on Chester Street.
The blaze was reported shortly before 2.30am on Friday.
Three fire engines from Chester and Ellesmere Port were on the scene within minutes and crews prevented the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties.
Five tanning pods and the front of the salon have been completely destroyed by the fire.
Proprietor Linzi Hayes said she is devastated at the impact the fire will have on the business, which she opened just two years ago.
“It’s not just my livelihood I have to think about, but also that of my two staff,” she said.
“Fortunately, many of our clientele are now friends and hopefully they’ll stick with us until we’re able to reopen.
“I’d echo the police and fire and rescue service’s appeal for anyone with information to come forward.”
Although an investigation into the precise cause is still ongoing, initial findings are the fire started after the front door had been smashed.
CCTV footage from a neighbouring pub also shows two men walking to the front of the shop from Shrewsbury Way shortly before the fire was reported.
Colin Heyes, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service’s arson reduction manager and the fire investigation officer for this incident, said: “It’s thanks to the swift action of the passers-by who reported the fire and our firefighters that it didn’t spread further.
“Nevertheless, the fire has caused significant damage to this business and for that reason we would urge anyone with information to contact the police or Crimestoppers.”
Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers, who can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.