A HOSPICE is being prosecuted over a fire which was followed by the deaths of three elderly patients.

Patient Rodney Smith, 67, was charged with arson in connection with the incident at St Michael’s Hospice in St Leonards but died before his trial.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has begun court proceedings over safety concerns following the fire, which happened in July 2015.

More than 20 patients, some of whom were terminally ill, and nine members of staff were forced to leave the building when the flames took hold.

Pearl Spencer, 78, Jill Moon, 62, and David Denness, 81, all suffered smoke inhalation and later died in hospital.

An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “A total of 13 summonses, and the evidence to support the charges, were served on Wednesday, May 3.

“The decision to bring a fire safety prosecution was based on the evidence gathered during our investigation into a fire at St Michael’s Hospice on Saturday, July 11, 2015 and on a number of other relevant matters.

“A man charged with arson by Sussex Police died in October 2015, days before a court case was due to take place.

“No further charges are being brought by the police.”

The service said it would not be making any further comment as it was now a legal matter.

A hospice spokeswoman said they were disappointed at the decision by the fire service to prosecute and the fire had been started by arson.

The hospice is now consulting with legal representatives on the matter.

The spokeswoman said: “St Michael’s Hospice is very proud of its reputation for the highest standards of care it provides to people with life limiting illness.

“It assures all patients, families and supporters that this care will continue unaffected.”

“We cannot comment further at this stage.”

The first appearance is scheduled to take place at Brighton Magistrates Court on June 8.

The hospice launched a major campaign to help with rebuilding the badly damaged property following the fire.

The blaze destroyed a large part of the building, mainly affecting patient areas.

The Phoenix Appeal was a big success, with support coming in from across the community.

Actor Mark Benton, who has appeared on numerous TV shows and films, including Waterloo Road, Doctor Who and Murphy’s Law, also backed the campaign.

More than £1 million was raised and the money has been used to carry out extensive repairs.

This includes new patient rooms with en suite shower rooms.