Police are investigating the cause of a fire at the rear of the Peacocks clothing store in Bitterne precinct Southampton.

Emergency services attended the scene at around 5.18pm on Thursday, February 24, after the fire was discovered in a cavity between the outer and inner wall of the building.  Investigators believe the fire was caused by an ignited object which had been deliberately pushed through an air vent.
 
Police are appealing for witnesses who were in the vicinity of the precinct at the time who may have seen or heard anything that might be linked to the fire.  They would particularly like to hear from anyone who may have seen someone leaving the area in a hurry immediately prior to the fire being discovered.
 
Although the store was open for trading, it was fortunate that the fire was noticed before it had time to spread and cause any significant damage to the building or injuries to staff and customers.
 
Anyone with information is asked to contact Bitterne CID on 101 or the Crimestoppers charity line anonymously on 0800 555 111.