German police have arrested a fireman who they say started and then helped to put out a massive blaze that destroyed a home for asylum seekers a month ago.

The huge fire destroyed the historic building that was being used mainly by Ukrainian refugees in Gross Stroemkendorf near Wismar in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

After the fire happened it was revealed that a swastika had been painted on the doorway of the property although police believe this was knocked related to the later blaze.

The public prosecution office in the state capital Schwerin has confirmed the arrest of the 32-year-old suspect who was not named for legal reasons, and they now believe that there was not a political motive behind the blaze.

The arrested man has so far denied involvement in the blaze and other related fires after he was picked up when an arrest warrant was issued.

The huge building which was the former hotel Schaefereck that was unusual with a thatched roof was almost completely destroyed following the blaze. The fire lasted from 19th-20th October before it was brought under control by firefighters including the accused man.

The latest damage assessment is that the building has been so badly damaged, it is most likely now going to be pulled down.

At the time there were 14 residents as well as three carers from the German Red Cross, all of whom managed to escape without being harmed.

The other fires that the man is apparently being linked to included other thatched properties and areas of forest.

The firm is currently in custody on suspicion of arson.

The arrest was praised by regional interior Minister Christian Pegel (SPD) who said it was good police work and good to put an end to the many speculations that appeared now to be incorrect about the reason for the blaze.