Police are appealing for witnesses following a fire at a former job centre in Hampshire.

A member of the public called the emergency services after seeing flames. He also saw a man appear from a side alley near to the scene.

Police would like to speak to this man in connection with the fire.

He is described as:

• White man

• In his 30s

• Stocky build

• Wearing a black woollen baseball style cap and a sports coat.

The incident occurred at around Kingston Road, Portsmouth 7.40pm on Thursday, January 24 at the old job centre.

Detective Constable Pete Bambury from Portsmouth CID said: “Luckily the building is self contained and no one was hurt.

“The cause of the fire is currently unknown but I am eager to trace the man seen coming from the side alley.

"He may have seen something important and be able to assist the enquiry into how the fire started.

“Kingston Road is very busy throughout the day and night so I would like to hear from anyone that was passing by the building and who saw something that we should know about.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Det Con Bambury at Portsmouth CID by phoning 101.

Mini-Com users can call the police on 18001 101. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.