It is alleged that Frederick Hollely went back to 'finish the job' after being convicted of criminal damage at the pub four months earlier.

A jury at Nottingham Crown Court was told yesterday that a fingerprint found on a window frame linked him to the fire.

Hollely, of Northwood Avenue, on Sutton's Carsic estate, where the pub is situated, denies arson.

Prosecutor Stuart Lody said the landlady and her husband had decided to give up the tenancy and had moved out.

The building was no longer actively operating as a pub and a friend of the landlady's had moved into the living accommodation with her partner.

But they were out on 3rd January when two women working at a nearby care home saw a man on the pub's flat roof extension.

"Seconds later smoke was seen billowing out of the pub," said Mr Lody.

"The fire brigade was called and flames extinguished, but not before substantial damage had occurred."

It is alleged Hollely smashed a bathroom window to gain entry.

The court was told that while firefighters were still there he turned up and commented to the landlady's friend that she would have to buy some new clothes.

Mr Lody said: "The Crown say the defendant had a problem with either the pub or the people who lived there."

The trial continues.