A BLOCK of flats in Southampton had to be evacuated this morning after fire took hold on a balcony.

The fire sparked on the first floor balcony at Rosida Gardens in Hill Lane and spread to the flat above.

Smoke made its way through the building, forcing firefighters to evacuate the building.

Around 18 people were evacuated and moved to a nearby guesthouse.

There were no injuries but firefighters lead two adults and a child out of the building.

It is not known what caused the fire.

10 firefighters in breathing apparatus extinguished the blaze using three hose reel jets.

Hill Lane is currently closed at the junction of Roberts Road to Mandela Way.

There is visible fire damage at the front of the block.