Manager held over TV chef 'arson'

Oliver is famous for his campaigns, such as improving meals in schools

A manager at Jamie Oliver's restaurant in Melbourne has been questioned by arson detectives over a fire at the chef's office in the Australian city.

The building was used by Oliver's Fifteen Foundation and suffered damage valued at A$1 million (£487,000).

The man of 32, described as holding "a senior management position" at Fifteen, also had his home searched by officers.

The restaurant, which was not damaged, opened in 2006 as part of scheme to train disadvantaged young people.

More than 35 people have taken part since its launch and another 20 are due to start the programme next week.

A reality TV series charted the launch of the business by British star Oliver, who also has premises in London, Cornwall and Amsterdam.

Oliver has opened restaurants in the UK, the Netherlands and Australia

A statement from the Fifteen Foundation spoke of staff being "deeply distressed" and saddened by the impact of the fire on morale and on the organisation's work.

The employee questioned was "an external appointment" and was not one of the trainees currently on its books, it added.

His identity has not been given and he has been released "pending further inquiries" by police.

"Detectives from the Melbourne Criminal Investigation Unit are investigating with assistance from the Arson Squad," a Victoria Police spokeswoman added.