[Omah]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-17154157

A man has pleaded guilty to starting a fire which destroyed a 144-year-old furniture shop in south London during last summer's riots.

Gordon Thompson, 33, changed his plea during a trial at the Old Bailey.

The court had previously heard that Thompson told another man "it was me", as he walked away from the burning House of Reeves in Croydon on 8 August.

He stole a laptop from Reeves before asking around for a lighter and setting fire to a sofa, the court heard.

The blaze was so fierce buildings on the opposite side of the road caught fire and tram lines in the road were damaged.

The burnt-out store has since been demolished, but the company is still trading from refurbished premises across the street.

Judge Peter Thornton QC said Thompson, of Waddon Road, Croydon, would receive a lengthy sentence. He will be sentenced on 11 April.

'Ran riot'

Thompson had previously admitted burglary of two shops in Croydon - Iceland and House of Fraser - but had denied the charge of arson in relation to the store.

At the end of the prosecution opening he decided to admit certain charges.

IMO, he should get at least 10 years .....