An investigation has been launched into the cause of a fire in a historic Turkish bath.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue fire investigation officers and Sussex Police scene of crimes officers have begun their enquiries into a blaze at Medina House in Kings Esplande, Hove.

Five fire engines were called to the former public baths at about 5.40pm last night after flames and smoke were seen coming out of the top floor of the building.

Fire crews remained at the scene of the fire, which began on the first floor of the empty building, until after 8pm.

Firefighters said a lot of water was used from two hose reels to tackle the blaze.

The site has been the subject of numerous planning applications in recent years from developer Sirus Taghan who wishes to demolish the building, which opened as a public bath house in 1894, and replace it with an apartment block.

The building had already been damaged in a fire in May last year.

A member of staff from nearby restaurant Marrocco’s told The Argus last night: “It seems pretty bad, flames are coming out of the building and there are five fire engines at the scene.

“They closed the road and put a seal around the road but there are a lot of people beyond that who are looking on.”