More than a year and a half after a devastating fire which left most of its 18 tenants homeless, the Royal Clarence apartments in Seaton are now available to rent again.

The building has been fully restored after being severely damaged in an arson attack in December 2018.

Most of the 18 tenants at the town centre apartments lost possessions and were made homeless just before Christmas in the incident. They were said to have had their "lives put at risk" after Connor Hallett, aged 23, who lived in one of the flats, set fire to the building.

He was later jailed for five years and four months by Exeter Crown Court after admitting to the crime, and the remaining tenants were eventually re-housed with help from East Devon District Council.

The fire caused massive disruption in Seaton at the time and the adjoining Royal Clarence pub and Boots shop were closed for three weeks.

After months of restoration work overseen by building firm Whittakers, from Honiton, and NDM Architects from Seaton, 13 of the 15 flats are now available to rent again under letting agents Champion Holmes.

Although the flats and studio apartments retain the same floor plan, they have been described as "brand new", each with a new kitchen and bathroom, upgraded heating and replaced flooring.

Ranging in price from £395 to £595pcm, there is now a fully-furnished show flat available for viewings with occupation from the end of August.

Contact Champion Holmes on 01297 20080 or email [email protected] to register an interest or to book a viewing.