TWO puppies have died in a suspected arson at a block of flats.

Six fire engines were called to a the flats in Bewbush, Crawley, at about 5am.

No humans were reported injured.

But West Sussex Fire and Rescue confirmed that two rescue puppies had died.

The Argus:

Pictures from the scene in Wood Road, Bewbush, show firefighters battling to keep the fire under control.

At the time, Crawley council set up a refuge area in the Civic Centre next to Crawley Town Hall for those affected.

Crews were still at the scene at 10am.

Sussex Police Detective Inspector Pauline Lane said: "We are treating this fire as a deliberate act and we would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the fire being started or saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area."

"Any witnesses to the incident or anyone with information should report online or ring 101 quoting Operation Clayhill."