YOUNGSTERS have been left without a venue for their playgroup after the roof of a community hall in Romsey was destroyed by fire - believed to have been started deliberately.

Three fire crews from Romsey and Eastleigh fought the blaze at Montfort Hall, off Benedict Close. They were alerted by neighbours but were unable to save the roof of the building.

Montfort Hall Community Association founding chairman, Councillor Mark Cooper said there would be "very significant" disruption as a new home would have to be found for the many children who used the hall for pre-school activities and an after-school club.

A fire service spokesman said it was investigating the cause of the fire, which spread from rubbish at the rear of the building.