Reports say that two masked people entered the pub and made threats, before pouring accelerant inside and setting the pub alight. No one was hurt during the attack, but ‘significant damage’ was caused to the pub.
Detective Inspector Tim Hunt said: “A number of proactive enquiries are ongoing into this arson attack. Clearly this would have been a very frightening incident for the four people who were inside the pub but were out before the fire started.
"I would again wish to reiterate that this is an extremely rare incident, especially for the Knottingley area and, we are doing all we can to locate those responsible.
"We have been told several people may have filmed the fire and I would urge anyone who has footage of this incident to come forwards and provide this to police as it could well assist with the investigation."
One of the suspects is described as 5ft 8ins tall, with a medium build and dressed in black. The second is described as taller, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft.
Police are asking for anyone with any information to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.