ARSON is a possible cause of the huge blaze which destroyed 19 coaches, emergency services have said.

The fire broke out at the Upper Beeding Cement Works site at about 2am on Sunday, waking residents who thought bombs were going off.

An investigation began at 10am yesterday to determine the cause, and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement "arson has not been ruled out."

The statement read: "An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway, but the possibility of arson has not been ruled out. If you may have seen or heard anything suspicious, or have other information concerning the fire, then please contact police online."

The coaches destroyed were owned by Ace Travel, who say they are co-operating with the probe.

Two portacabins were destroyed along with a workshop.

Police say they are working closely with the fire service to discover the cause.

Detective Sergeant Christine Holyoake said: "We are interested to hear from anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, or who may have other information concerning the fire."

Anyone with information about the fire should call Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 198 of 24/09.