PICTURES: A look at the Frogmore Paper Mill fire

There was “extensive damage” at the Frogmore Paper Mill visitor centre after the fire broke out at 3.30pm.

The fire service rushed to the scene on Saturday (January 22) and spent much of the day calming the blaze.

Pictures show the extent of the damage Credit: Harpenden Fire Station

Pictures show the extent of the damage Credit: Harpenden Fire Station

At the time the fire crews also helped to evacuate as many historical and valuable items at the mill as they could to prevent damage.

On Monday, it was confirmed that a boy, 13, was arrested on suspicion of arson and released under investigation.

Pictures show the extent of the damage Credit: Harpenden Fire Station

Pictures show the extent of the damage Credit: Harpenden Fire Station

It was reported that a fire had started in a skip, before spreading to a building that was near.

The site, which homes the oldest mechanical paper mill in the world, released a statement on social media confirming there had been "extensive damage".

Firefighters tackled the fire by the paper mill Credit: Aperture Northampton News Team

Pictures show the extent of the damage Credit: Aperture Northampton News Team

It reads: "Thankfully nobody was injured during the fire, but there has been extensive damage to the Mill's visitor centre.

“We're in the process of assessing the damage to the site and our collection, and we're hopeful that our historic working paper machines have survived.

“We're extremely grateful for the quick response of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue and their work to bring the fire under control. We're working with the police and Fire Service to help determine the cause of the fire.”

Firefighters tackled the fire by the paper mill Credit: Aperture Northampton News Team

The fire was under control at 6.40pm, but fire crews remained on the scene much later that day.