A fire that totally destroyed a derelict bungalow was started deliberately, according to fire officers.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue crews were called to the blaze in Reed’s Lane, Sayers Common, Hassocks, at about 9.50pm last night.

The building was 100% destroyed in the fire.

A fire spokesman said: “It was deliberate ignition. Police attended to close the road and they are aware it was deliberate.”

Fire investigators have since been back to the scene.