A suspect appeared in Leeds Magistrates Court this morning to deny starting the fire that partially damaged the iconic Majestic nightclub last Tuesday night.

32-year old Stuart James Jefferson, from Leeds, pleaded not guilty while appearing before District judge Roy Anderson.

The case has now been sent to the Crown Court, with the first hearing due to take place on October 16th.

Jefferson has not yet been granted bail due to an appeal by the prosecution. A crown court judge will now decide whether to grant Jefferson bail in 42 hours.

Tuesday’s fire destroyed the roof of the building, which used to house the famous nightclub.

At the peak of the fire 75 fire-fighters were involved in combating the blaze. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue have remained on the scene all week combating debris.

The assistant district commander for Leeds said in a statement: “We are working alongside building surveyors in an advisory capacity to make the building safe.”

Quebec Street has been closed off all week, however it will re-open after the building is restored.

Sean Hayes

Photo: Yorkshire Evening Post