A 26-YEAR-old man has admitted arson in connection with a devastating fire that destroyed holiday accommodation at Malvern Link Station. 

During his latest court appearance Matthew Wright, from Clayfield Drive in Malvern, spoke only to confirm his details and plead guilty to a count of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered. 

Wright denied a second count of arson with intent to endanger life when that was put to him by the court clerk. 

Harinderpal Dhami, prosecuting, said they would need time to determine whether Wright's pleas would be acceptable to the crown, or whether there will be a trial on the second count. 

Malvern Gazette: COURT: Matthew Wright leaving Worcester Crown CourtCOURT: Matthew Wright leaving Worcester Crown Court (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest)

Abigail Nixon, defending, asked for a pre-sentence report for Wright which was granted by Judge Nicholas Cartwright. 

The judge told Wright to return to the court on June 13. 

The case was heard at Worcester Crown Court on Monday, (April 17). 

READ MORE: Man charged with arson following fire near Malvern railway station

READ MORE: Heartbroken couple speak of moment they were told about devastating holiday home fire

READ MORE: Malvern Link Station House given a new lease of life

As we previously reported emergency services were called to a fire at the Station House, on the grounds of Malvern Link railway station, at around 2.30am on March 7.

Owners Chloe and Lee Bone use it as holiday accommodation and they have said it will be a year, if not longer, before their trade can return to normal.

Malvern Gazette: FIRE: The fire destroyed Station House near Malvern Link Railway StationFIRE: The fire destroyed Station House near Malvern Link Railway Station (Image: Newsquest)

In a statement after the fire, Mrs Bone said: "We are heartbroken beyond belief.

"The damage is devastating and was caused in the space of around only 20 minutes."

Two crews from Worcester Fire Station attended along with Malvern, Upton and the incident command unit from Ledbury.

All people were accounted for as the fire spread from the balcony to the ground and first floor.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said in their statement after the fire the building was 100 per cent damaged by smoke and 20 per cent by fire.