Dorset Police believe that a fire in a block of flats in Hunt Road, Christchurch was started deliberately.

They received a report at 7.56pm on Tuesday 16 November from the fire service relating to the fire which it was believed to have started in a communal hallway of the building.

Officers attended to assist the fire service and residents were evacuated as the fire was extinguished. Five people were checked over by the ambulance service at the scene for smoke inhalation, but none of them were believed to be in a serious condition.

Chief Inspector Andy Bell, of Dorset Police, said: “The initial indication is that this fire is believed to have been started deliberately and we have launched an investigation to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the incident or who has any information that might assist our ongoing enquiries.

“We will continue to work with the fire service to confirm the cause of the fire and there will be a cordon in place as an examination of the scene continues.

“I want to thank the residents involved for their co-operation and understanding as the emergency services respond to this matter, as well as other members of the local community affected by this incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online/, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 16:674. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.