A FLEA infestation has forced a Hampshire police station to close today.

Fratton Police Station will be closed until 7am tomorrow morning while it is being fumigated.

A spokesman for Hampshire Police said the infestation was likely caused after an animal entered the station.

All detectives and investigative staff working in the offices were moved to the station earlier this year and the closure has forced them to work elsewhere.

A spokesman for the office of the Hampshire police and crime commissioner added: “We can confirm that Fratton Police Station has been fumigated for animal fleas this morning and staff will be able to return to the building from 7am on Saturday.

“This infestation could only have happened because an animal has entered the building, so we would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that animals must not be brought into police buildings, apart from guide dogs.

“We are aware that the closure of Fratton Police Station could inconvenience the public and police staff and appreciate the flexibility they have demonstrated while this problem is treated.’ The spokesman did not reveal the animal which got into the station.

It comes after Simon Hayes, Hampshire’s police and crime commissioner, said in July that he was determined to find a new, better police base in Portsmouth and called the Fratton site “substandard”.