RESIDENTS of a block of Winyates flats had to be evacuated at the weekend after what is believed to be a suspicious fire.

The fire started in a cupboard outside flats in Mainstone Close about 12.30am on Saturday.

Redditch and Bromsgrove fire stations sent four fire engines and a hydraulic platform to the scene and crews safely put out the blaze while the residents were evacuated for short time.

Officers are keen to speak to a person who was seen driving away from the flats in a white van just before the fire started as they may have vital information.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 08457 444888 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.