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‘Someone has it in for me’ – suspected arson attack at Ashton eyelash academy

Posted on - 28th September, 2020 - 6:21pm | Author - | Posted in - Ashton-on-Ribble, Crime, Lancashire Police, Preston News
Imogen Southwood
The iLashed Academy owner Imogen Southwood said: “Someone is trying their best to ruin my business and my life”

The owner of The iLashed Academy is offering a £1,000 cash reward after a suspected arson attack at her Lane Ends premises.

20-year-old Imogen Southwood from Fulwood posted on social media about the incident, which took place yesterday (Sunday 27 September) at around midnight.

It’s the second time there has been a fire at the academy in Blackpool Road since it opened last year.

Read more: Young Fulwood entrepreneur to launch eyelash academy in former Lloyds Bank

In a Facebook post containing CCTV footage, Imogen pleaded for people to come forward with information:

“I can’t believe I’m writing this again… £1000 CASH reward for information leading to arrest and conviction. Someone’s going to know something, I need names, Preston is a small place and someone knows who this is… Someone clearly has it in for me and is trying their best to ruin my business and my life! I’m 20 years old I don’t deserve any of this.

“We have only just been allowed back to work since being in lockdown. I’ve worked so hard to get my salon back to normal after last time and now it’s happened all over again. Please help.”

CCTV footage of the fire at The iLashed Academy
CCTV footage of the fire at The iLashed Academy

After pouring an accelerant through the door and setting it alight, the offender made off from the scene on a white and blue Carrera bike. Their right hand appeared to be on fire.

CCTV footage of the fire at The iLashed Academy
CCTV footage shows the fire taking hold

Preston Police have launched an appeal. DC Liz Sheard said: “Somebody has deliberately set this business premises on fire and we are working hard to establish who is responsible.

“We are now asking for the public’s help. Perhaps you think you know who is responsible, or maybe somebody you know has suffered an unexplained burn to one of their hands.

“Equally, you may recognise the man in the pictures. Whatever you know, please contact us as soon as possible.”




A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Four fire crews from Preston, Fulwood, Penwortham and Bamber Bridge were called to reports of a fire at a commercial property on Blackpool Road, Preston.

“Firefighters used two breathing apparatus, one hose reel and a ventilation unit to extinguish the fire. Crews were in attendance approximately two hours and forty five minutes. An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway alongside colleagues from the Police.”

If you can help, call 101 quoting log number 22/280920. Alternatively you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines

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