A man has been arrested after a fire that saw residents evacuated from a block of flats.

Emergency services were called to Yew Court, in Springfield Road, Crawley, shortly before 1am on Friday morning to reports of a "disturbance".

A fire was found in the flats, which police suspect was "caused deliberately".

A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to danger life.

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A spokesman for Sussex Police said: "Emergency services are currently responding to a disturbance at a flat in Yew Court, Springfield Road, Crawley, which was reported shortly before 1am on Friday (15 March).

"Residents have been evacuated from the building following a fire which is suspected to have been caused deliberately. A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

"This is an ongoing, isolated incident and does not pose a threat to the wider public. A heightened police presence is expected at this time.

"We will continue to work with partners to ensure the building is safe and that residents can return to their homes as soon as possible.

"We’d like to thank the public for their patience and for cooperating with officers and our partners."

"The police thank the public for their patience."

Residents are currently staying at the town hall.