Fundraiser for diner damaged in arson attack
CL’s Diner in Blackhall Colliery has been left seriously damaged after it was targeted by arsonists.
Durham Police and firefighters from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) were called to the diner on Middle Street in Blackhall after receiving reports of a blaze during the early hours of Friday,
July 17. A joint investigation has been launched and it is believed a suspect has gained entry to the rear of the café before setting a fire and running off.
It is not the first time the diner, which only opened in May, has been a target for criminals when vandals broke in and set off fire extinguishers.
Corey Longstaff, 22 is the owner of CL’s Diner, has said the business is now at serious risk of closure.
He said: “The full café is ruined, everything is smoked damaged. My whole business has been burnt to a crisp.
"Now all my staff are out of a job and the business is under serious threat as there is no income.”
An online fundraiser has been set up to try to support Corey and his team while they attempt to get up and running again.
Corey added: “We’ve had loads of support and it is so nice to know there are lots of people behind us.
"It is also really good to see the community supporting a local business in a time of need.” A Durham Constabulary spokeswoman said: “The incident is being treated as arson and a joint investigation with colleagues from CDDFRS is ongoing.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Peterlee CID on 101 quoting incident number 21 of July 17.”
You can view the fundraiser by on gofundme.com.