Arson suspected as fire rips through derelict hotel

Smoke could be seen billowing into the sky as the fire engulfed the roof of the former Cygnet Hotel

A blaze at a derelict hotel on the Isle of Wight that firefighters have worked overnight to extinguish is being treated as suspected arson by police.

The fire engulfed the roof of the former Cygnet Hotel on the corner of Carter Street and Broadway in Sandown.

Crews from across the island in six fire engines, along with two water carriers and two aerial ladder platforms, were sent to the fire at about 18:00 BST on Saturday, with an additional crew from Waterlooville.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said an investigation was under way to establish the cause and urged witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.

People living near the derelict hotel were urged to keep windows and doors closed due to the smoke overnight

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said no injuries had been reported.

Residents in the area were advised to keep their doors and windows closed overnight due to smoke and people have been urged to avoid the area with crews expected to remain at the scene on Sunday.

There have been numerous fires at several of the island's derelict hotels, including the Cygnet Hotel at the seaside resort.