AN investigation is underway after a fire at a former bank in Tidworth.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to the old Lloyds TSB in Station Road at around 10.30pm last night (Thursday) and found the building "well alight".

Nine fire crews from Ludgershall, Amesbury, Salisbury (two), Pewsey and Marlborough, and Andover (two) and Redbridge, from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, were sent to the scene, along with an incident command vehicle from Devizes and an operational support unit from Swindon.

Firefighters have remained on scene overnight, with relief crews being brought in from Corsham, Wilton, Ramsbury and Bradford on Avon.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: "Damping down is continuing this morning while a fire investigator and Wiltshire Police investigate what happened."

Residents near to the property were evacuated from their homes but police say no-one was injured.

Police are calling for witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious vehicles in the area at the time to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Matt Smith from Salisbury CID said: "We are currently investigating the fire to ascertain the exact circumstances of how it started. We would like to hear from anyone who has information."

Inspector Liz Coles added: "We are working closely with our colleagues in the fire service to establish the cause of this fire.

"Local residents will likely see an increased police presence as carry out our investigations. It is important that anyone with information comes forward as this could easily have been a very serious incident.

"We are grateful for any help from the community and appreciate the understanding of local residents as we go about our work."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Salisbury CID on 101, quoting log 358 of 3/10.