UPDATE: Arson arrest after Southsea flat fire

The 29-year-old man, of no fixed address, has been arrested suspicion of arson reckless as to whether life would be endangered, a police spokeswoman said.

She added: ‘It’s suspected at this time but further investigation is being carried out.’

It comes after firefighters were called to Waverley Road just before 11.30pm last night.

Four firefighters battled the blaze with breathing apparatus and two hose reels.

Three pumps from Southsea station and a senior tactical advisor officer attended.

No-one was injured, although the flat was left badly damaged by the fire.

An investigation into the fire is being carried out this morning.

Residents, who did not wish to be named, said there was another fire on Tuesday morning at the same building.

One man, 23, said: ‘My reaction is not one of surprise but I’m glad that nobody has got hurt.’