AN arsonist has been convicted by the courts of setting fire to a Warrington prison cell.

Jamie Crawford admitted a charge of arson, being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.

The 30-year-old was alleged to have committed the offence at HM Prison Risley on March 21.

The case was first before Warrington Magistrates’ Court last month, with proceedings sent to the crown court.

Crawford appeared before Liverpool Crown Court yesterday, Monday, for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

The defendant was before the court via video link from HM Prison Altcourse.

It was put to him that on March 21 at the Warrington Road category C prison, he committed arson in that without lawful excuse, he damaged a mattress and bedding belonging to His Majesty's Prison Service by fire.

It was further alleged that Crawford did so intending to destroy or damage property, or being reckless as to whether property would be destroyed or damaged, and being reckless as to whether the life of another would be thereby endangered.

To the charge, the defendant pleaded guilty, with a date for sentence agreed by the prosecution represented by Nardeen Nemat, and Mark le Brocq, appearing in court on behalf of Crawford.

Before adjourning the case, judge Ian Unsworth said: “You have pleaded guilty, and this case is to be listed for sentence. This will take place on May 14.

“A pre-sentence report is to be prepared by the probation service.

“They will want to speak with you about your background and your attitude to your offending, and they will make constructive proposals to the court.

“Please co-operate with them. For now, you will remain in custody.”

After being told proceedings were complete for the day, Crawford said to the judge: “Thank you. Have a good day.”