A CRIMINAL investigation is now underway after arson was determined as the cause of a fire that engulfed a Ringwood shopping centre.

Firefighters from across Hampshire and Dorset were sent to tackle the blaze at Meeting House Shopping Centre where the fire had been started deliberately early Sunday morning.

Bournemouth Echo:

It is believed it was started in a commercial bin which was up against the rear wall of the building.

Now the matter has been handed to Hampshire Constabulary.

“The examination of the fire scene has eliminated all possible ignition sources apart from a deliberate source,” a spokesman for the fire service said.

Six shops in all were affected as a result of the fire which tore through roof areas upstairs of the gift shop Ringwood Celebrations, Sue Ryder charity shop and Longs greengrocers.

Bournemouth Echo:

Despite the devastation, Longs suffered only minor smoke damage to some stock and was able to reopen on Monday morning.

However staff at Sue Ryder and the gift shop have been unable to return to their premises until further notice.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call the police on 101 quoting reference 44160447212.