arsonists trying to get into the property.

Police and firefighters were called to the abandoned building on Union Street, Pembroke early yesterday morning after flames were spotted coming from one of the doorways.

Just before 2 a.m. firefighters were able to extinguish the flames, which were restricted to the exterior of the building, although the interior also had to be ventilated.

A four foot by eight foot plywood sheet used to block up one of the entrances to the house was completely destroyed in the fire and there was also smoke damage to parts of the outside brickwork.

Last night a Police spokesman said that the cause of the fire was still being investigated.

And he added that arson could have caused the fire.

"The cause is still under investigation but arson has not been ruled out,'' the spokesman said.

The property was boarded up by Corporation of Hamilton workers three weeks ago after a Police surveillance team identified the home as a crack house. The building was also being regularly used by prostitutes as a place to take clients.

Police had earlier warned that anyone found trespassing on the property will be prosecuted.

The building will eventually be converted into apartments.

SCENE OF THE CRIME -- Yesterday morning's fire left the former crack house once again accessible to drug dealers.

DRUGS DGS