A man has been detained under the Mental Health Act following a suspected arson in Chandler's Ford, police confirmed.

Emergency services rushed to a fire at a house in Suffolk Drive shortly after midnight on Sunday, September 1.

The scene was described by one neighbour has "horrible".

Hampshire Constabulary previously confirmed that a 56-year-old man was arrested by police at the scene on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

The force has now confirmed that a 56-year-old man from Eastleigh has been detained under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act – which allows for a person to be admitted to hospital for up to 28 days, to assess whether they are suffering from a mental disorder.

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Emergency services attending a blaze on Suffolk Drive (Image: Supplied)

In a statement, Eastleigh district commander, Chief Inspector Matt Paling, said: “Our investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident is ongoing and our enquiries continue.

“We are working closely with our partners to support those affected by this incident.

“Officers completing enquiries and reassurance patrols in the area will be on hand to answer any questions and respond to any concerns from the community.”

The chief inspector added: “Please come over and speak to them if you need to discuss or ask anything or share any information.”