Police confiscated more than 100 plants after a suspected cannabis nursery caught fire.

Firefighters discovered the plants as they tackled a blaze in a loft in St Matthews Road, Worthing, last night.

Elaborate lighting, heating and watering systems were also found and the fire is thought to have been caused by an electrical fault.

Some of the plants were being sent away today for analysis.

An 18-year-old man was arrested at the scene and was today helping police with their inquiries.

Police stood guard outside the house and forensic science experts were examining the scene today.

Fifty firefighters tackled the blaze, which started mid-evening.

The occupant was out when the alarm was raised and fire crews had to force their way in.

The roof was in flames and the smell from the plants wafted through the street. Crews wore breathing apparatus.

Firefighters from Worthing, Lancing, Findon, East Preston, Bognor and Shoreham tackled the blaze.

Sub Officer Clive Innocent, in charge of the operation, said: "You couldn't spend too long in there in case you got high."

Fire crews spent two hours bringing the fire under control and inspected the scene again early today.

A fire brigade spokeswoman said: "Prompt action by the crews ensured the fire was contained to one property and adjacent houses were undamaged.

"The fire was quickly brought under control but a large section of the roof at the rear of the building was severely damaged."