AN investigation is underway this morning after fire ripped through a block of Hampshire flats.

Around 30 fire fighters were called to Mansel Road East in Millbrook, Southampton last night as a blaze took hold in the terraced council property.

Three residents fled the building during the drama, which started at around 10.50pm.

Shocked neighbours watched on as teams from Hightown, Redbridge and St Mary's fire stations tackled the blaze, which destroyed part of the roof of the building and gutted much of the interior.

This morning police were investigating the cause of the fire, which started in the first floor and spread to the roof.