A MAN tried to set fire to a local store for no apparent reason, Warrington Crown Court hear on Friday.

Christopher Kennell, of Water Street, Runcorn, had not fallen out with the owners and could offer no reason why he had tried to set the shop alight, the court was told.

Kennell, 33, admitted arson and was remanded on bail until September 3 for reports.

Mark Roberts, prosecuting, said staff arrived at the Colin Sykes store in Church Street to find the floor wet and smelling of petrol.

They checked security cameras and saw Kennell, a regular customer, putting a blazing paper bag through the letter box followed by a bottle of fluid.

Police were called and he was arrested but could offer no reason for doing it, other than he was drunk.

Luckily he had used kerosene, which will only burn with a wick, said Mr Roberts.

Judge Stephen Clarke said: "This is a very unusual case because there is no rhyme or reason for him to do this.

"There is no sign of him falling out with staff at the shop.

"It makes no sense at all."

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