Man admits starting fire that destroyed MP's Washington office

A 28-year-old man has admitted arson after a major fire at an MP's constituency office.

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The premises - Vermont House on Woodland Terrace - was devastated by a blaze which happened in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Joshua Oliver, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to starting the fire which destroyed the premises of Sharon Hodgson, Labour MP for Washington and Gateshead South, pictured.

Flames were seen during Wednesday night as seven appliances from Tyne and Wear Fire Service battled the fire.

The guilty plea was entered at Newcastle Magistrates' Court on the basis that it was reckless rather than intentional.