FIRE investigators have been unable to begin their probe into what may have started a fire which engulfed a Southampton shopping centre.

Portswood High Street was left shrouded in thick smoke after a fire broke out in derelict storage sheds on Wednesday afternoon.

Plumes could be seen several miles away as more than 20 |firefighters tackled the blaze in Portswood Road. A large section of the road was cordoned off, businesses evacuated and shops closed after residents and shoppers were urged to stay out of the smoke.

However, efforts to find the fire’s cause were hampered |yesterday after the fire scene was deemed too dangerous to enter.

Structural engineers will assess whether the burnt-out shell of the shed is safe enough for |investigators to begin their work.

It is hoped officers may be allowed in at some point today.