A 24-year-old man has been charged with arson after a fire in Codicote caused £3.5 million worth of damage to a grade II listed building.

The Comet: Firefighters combat the blaze at Node Court in Codicote last year. Photo: @redsfirewatfordFirefighters combat the blaze at Node Court in Codicote last year. Photo: @redsfirewatford (Image: Archant)

Joshua Bozier, from Kimpton, stands accused of starting the blaze at Node Court in Drivers End Lane, a thatched-roof house that had been converted to offices.

Bozier was arrested in connection with the fire two days after the incident, which happened on July 12 last year.

Following prolonged police enquiries, he was charged with arson on Tuesday and has been released on bail to appear at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on July 18.

The Comet: Firefighters combat the blaze at Node Court in Codicote last year. Photo: @redsfirewatfordFirefighters combat the blaze at Node Court in Codicote last year. Photo: @redsfirewatford (Image: Archant)

Senior investigating officer Det Sgt Sarah Gilbertson said: “Investigations into this crime are still ongoing and I would urge anyone who might have any further information to get in contact with us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference number G1/15/1726.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or use their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.