AN ARSON probe has been launched after a fire at a Southampton funfair.

Hampshire police have confirmed officers are treating the incident at Children's Pleasure Park near Southampton Sports Centre as arson and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

This comes after emergency services rushed to the scene shortly before 6am today.

The fire has completely destroyed a marquee used for children's birthday parties and some sheds and facilities at the site have also been vandalised.

Crews from Redbridge and Eastleigh fire stations were called at 05.45am and the fire was put out by 7.15am.

The area was cordoned off and police officers were called to the scene.

A spokeswoman for Hampshire police has now said: “Officers are currently investigating following an incident of arson and criminal damage at the fun fair at Southampton Sports Centre. Anyone with any information should call Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44190058890.”