Gordon Thompson, 34, who
admitted to starting a fire which
destroyed a 144-year-old furniture store in Croydon during the London riots last summer, is expected to receive a significant jail sentence today.
Croydon-based Mr Thompson allegedly bragged to passers-by moments after starting the House of Reeves fire, which became one of the emblematic images of the August riots seen all over the world. He admitted to the offence at the Old Bailey in February and is due back for sentencing today.
The defendant is alleged to have run riot through the streets on August 8, and was captured in several CCTV images and phone videos. He was described by a witness as having said "I did that" about the Reeves fire. The blaze was so ferocious it spread to buildings on the other side of the road and lead to a woman having to jump from her first floor flat window to safety.
Maurice Reeves, owner of the shop, has reportedly arrived at the Old Bailey to witness the sentencing. Following Mr Thompson's plea of guilty to arson, Mr Reeves reportedly spoke out about the fire, describing it as so traumatising, he felt parts of him had died.
DIYWeek.net will be posting updates of Mr Thompson's sentencing throughout the day.