A fire which devastated businesses and flats in Halesworth is being treated as arson by police.

Fire crews received reports of a blaze in Chediston Street at around 6.15pm on Monday, June 4.

The fire broke out in a flat above D C Patrick Newsagents, and spread to neighbouring buildings which also included Pinky’s cafe and Hunky Dory retro clothing and furniture.

No one was injured in the fire, however many residents were evacuated from their homes as a cordon was put in place by police and fire crews.

A Suffolk Police spokesman said: “An arson investigation is now under way and enquires are on-going. Anyone with information should contact Lowestoft CID on 101 quoting reference 37/32052/18 or contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Eight fire crews attended the incident including crews from Beccles, Halesworth and Bungay working into the night to bring the fire under control.