A fire investigation conducted by HIWFRS into the cause of a major blaze at a block of flats in Portsmouth yesterday has found the fire was started deliberately

Police have now launched an appeal after fire investigators found that the fire was started deliberately with a number of suspicious circumstances surrounding the cause of the blaze.

More than 50 firefighters were in attendance of the blaze at Grafton Street, Portsmouth yesterday at 3.52pm.

Nearby residents were left petrified after being forced to evacuate their homes and seeing the fire tear through the top of the four storey building.

Fortunately no one was injured in the fire as residents managed to flee their homes before the fire took hold, now police have launched an witness appeal following yesterdays fire and asking for any information from possible witnesses.

Detective Constable Hollie Loader said: “Our initial enquires have led us to believe that this fire was started deliberately, and officers will remain in Grafton Street throughout the day as we investigate further.”

“Fortunately, nobody was injured in the blaze and the flat in question was empty at the time.”

“We are keen to speak with anyone who may have information about the fire, or who may have heard or saw anything suspicious relating to yesterdays incident.”

“If you can assist, Please call 101, quoting ref. 44220186268. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Firefighters from across the county were in attendance with crews from Southsea, Cosham Portchester, Havant, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hayling Island, St Marys, Waterlooville, Beaulieu and Alton tackled the blaze and a stop message was received at 6.24pm.