FIREFIGHTERS scaled a roof of a derelict building to tackle a blaze believed to have been started deliberately last night.

Dozens of firefighters from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were seen scaling the building in Terminus Road, Chichester at 9.45pm yesterday.

In the dead of night, crews were snapped climbing a ladder to reach the fire, that appeared to be on the roof of the property.

Crews wore breathing apparatus as they moved in to extinguish the blaze, which was attended by four fire engines.

It is believed to have been started deliberately and Sussex Police have been informed, the service said.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called to reports of a fire involving a derelict building on Terminus Road in Chichester at 9.45pm.

“Joint Fire Control mobilised two fire engines from Chichester and two from Bognor Regis to the scene.

“Upon arrival crews found the building well alight. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly brought the fire under control using two high pressure hose reels, two covering jets and a fog nail.

“Firefighters remained at the scene turning over and damping down, with the last crew booking away from the scene at 12.30am.

“The fire is believed to have been started deliberately, and Sussex Police have been informed.”