A FORMER resident of Crest Lodge residential care home in Hindhead was given a hospital order after attempting to set fire to the building,causing £26,000 of damage.

Kathleen Errington, 57, used a cigarette lighter to start the fire at the care home, which caters for up to 52 adults, many with mental health needs. The incident occurred on December 16, 2015, forcing other residents had to be evacuated.

Errington, from Epsom, pleaded guilty to arson on the basis of recklessness at Guildford Crown Court, last month, and was given a court order detaining her in hospital until she is considered fit to be released.

Crest Lodge was judged “inadequate” by the Care Quality Commission in August and placed in special measures.

John Stanley, operations director of parent company CHD Living, said at the time an internal inspection had taken place before the CQC visit, and work had already begun on identified improvements. He claimed significant progress in all areas had been made.