Witness appeal after tanning salon blaze

Police are appealing for witnesses after a "significant" fire broke out in a West Sussex tanning salon overnight.

The fire service evacuated about 40 people from flats above Tan Tastic on Broadwater Street West, Worthing, just before 23:00 BST on Monday.

Smoke could be seen billowing from the property as six firefighting crews tackled the flames before leaving at about 02:00 BST.

South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) was also called to the blaze and said no injuries were reported.

Fire crews worked at the front and back of the property to control the fire

Sussex Police have said there will be an officer presence in the area while investigations are carried out.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said six fire engines from Worthing, Lancing, East Preston, Littlehampton and Brighton were sent to the scene, as well as an aerial ladder platform and command support unit.

“Upon arrival crews were confronted with a significant fire," they said.

“Around 40 people were safely evacuated from the area while firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used hose reels and jets to extinguish the fire.

“Fortunately all people were accounted for and there were no casualties."

The fire service said it was working with Sussex Police to establish the cause and a joint investigation would begin later on Tuesday.

Fire crews accessed the property from the front and back before leaving the scene at about 02:00 BST on Tuesday