Southampton fire: Two boys arrested on suspicion of arson

Witnesses filmed the fire as it engulfed the building, which was under construction

Two boys aged 11 and 13 have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a four-storey building was destroyed by fire.

The blaze broke out at the commercial property under construction in Southampton on Tuesday.

The fire spread to the roof of a neighbouring block of flats in St Mary Street, which was evacuated.

Police said three men who were pictured on the roof of the building had been eliminated from the investigation.

News imageJesse Jones Burnt building in St Mary'sJesse Jones
The fire spread to all floors of the building

The fire started at about 14:00 GMT on the top floor of the vacant property and quickly engulfed the building.

More than 70 firefighters tackled the blaze, which damaged neighbouring shops and homes.

Some residents who were unable to return home were offered alternative accommodation by Southampton City Council.

There have been no reports of any injuries, police said.

The two suspects remain in police custody.

News imageJesse Jones fire in St MarysJesse Jones
St Mary Street was closed along with other roads