A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a major fire at a Swindon property in the town centre on Thursday.

The man, in his 40s, was also arrested as he was in breach of bail conditions, and currently remains in custody.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “We were called by the fire service shortly before 1.30pm yesterday, April 13, following reports of a fire at an address in Sheppard Street, Swindon.

“Enquiries have been ongoing and a man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and breach of bail.

“He was remanded in custody in relation to the latter offence and due to appear in court this morning.”

The residential building in Sheppard Street caught fire on Thursday afternoon, leading to four fire crews being deployed as well as police after 1.10pm.

Big clouds of billowing smoke could be seen by those walking past the area as the emergency response showed up.

A cordon was placed on the road with emergency tape, closing off access to motorists for a portion of the afternoon as the fire was dealt with.

Police now suspect that the fire was not an accident and have subsequently arrested a man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.