THE court case of four teenagers accused of burning down the former Mr Smith's building will now be heard in crown court.

Up until today, Wednesday, all four teens had appeared in youth court as they were under the age of 18.

But the court heard how the case would now have to be dealt with in an adult court as one of the defendants has recently celebrated his 18th birthday.

Carlton Beddard, of Weavers Fold, turned 18 on September 25 and can now be named in the legal proceedings.

As a result, he will also be sentenced as an adult.

His three co-accused – a 16-year-old girl and two 17-year-old boys – cannot be named due to reporting restrictions that have been imposed.

But all three have appeared in the adult court as youths.

The court heard how the Crown Prosecution Service has offered no further evidence into the more serious charge of arson which alleged they intended by destruction to endanger the life of another.

Instead, the less serious charge of arson which alleges they intended to destroy or damage the property or being reckless as to whether the property would be destroyed or damaged replaced the original charge.

All four defendants indicated a not guilty plea to the new charge.

The group are accused of burning down the iconic art deco building in Warrington town centre on April 14.

While the building was only partially destroyed by the fire, the decision was made to demolish the former cinema due to safety fears.

The four teens are expected to next appear at Chester Crown Court on December 7 for a preliminary hearing.