A large blaze which ripped through Sandown's derelict Ocean Hotel on Saturday (8) is being treated as arson, police have confirmed.
Hampshire Constabulary says no arrests have been made following the fire, although it is speaking to three youths who were in the area before the blaze broke out.
As Isle of Wight Radio first reported, the Esplanade and High Street were closed as more than 45 firefighters tackled the flames.
Residents were told to evacuate the area as smoke billowed over the town. It was eventually put out at around 4.30am Saturday morning.
As of yesterday (Sunday), the building was deemed 'structurally unstable'.
Police say its enquiries are continuing, and three individuals are assisting the force.
The cause is not yet known. Officers are appealing for information.
A police spokesperson said:
"We can confirm that three youths were stopped by police at the location prior to the call coming in regarding the fire.
"These individuals are assisting police with enquiries, however they are not under arrest.
"The incident is being treated as arson, but the exact cause of the fire has not been established at this time, and enquiries remain ongoing."
Anyone with information, or Dash Cam footage or CCTV from the area, is encouraged to call police on 101, quoting
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on