Portsmouth Travelodge fire: Three charged with arson

The fire broke out in a bedroom on the eighth floor of the hotel late on Tuesday night

Three teenagers have been charged after a fire on the eighth-floor of a city centre hotel.

The fire was found in a bedroom at the Travelodge on Stanhope Road in Portsmouth at 23:15 GMT on Tuesday.

Guests and all staff had to leave the 157-bedroom hotel - one person was treated for shortness of breath due to exertion from going down the stairs.

Police said a man and two women had been charged with arson. The two women were both also charged with affray.

The 18-year-old man from Portsmouth and the women, aged 19 from Paulsgrove and 18 from Totton, were due to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said crews from four stations were called to fire at the hotel, involving bedding and a mattress.

Those staying at the hotel were able to return to their rooms in the early hours.

A joint fire and police investigation into the cause is under way.

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