Police are treating a stable fire that killed two horses last week as suspected arson.

Newham Recorder: Flowers left in memory of the dead horses at the sceneFlowers left in memory of the dead horses at the scene (Image: Archant)

Twenty firefighters battled the blaze at The Stables in Stansfeld Road, Beckton at 11.20pm on Friday May 31 where up to 30 horses are kept, and Newham police also attended the scene after seeing a building on fire.

Detectives investigating the case now believe the fire was started deliberately but no arrests have been made so far.

It is also understood tenants at the stables were facing eviction.

Two horses called Pie and Gump, understood to be a thoroughbred and a cob, died with one of the horses so severely burnt it had to be put down by an armed officer.

Any witnesses or anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Violent Crime Unit on 020 8217 5855; if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.