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A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire at one of the UK's largest shopping centres.

The blaze broke out in a car park stairwell at Lakeside in Thurrock shortly before 15:00 BST on Sunday.

Essex Police said it was notified after an investigation revealed suspicious circumstances.

A 17-year-old boy from Grays has been questioned and released on bail while inquiries continue.

Sgt Amelia Moore said officers would continue to "maintain a presence" at the shopping centre.

"We are aware of the public concern connected to this fire and we have worked hard with our fire service colleagues to investigate the cause," she added.

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