TWO teenage boys have been arrested after a church was damaged in a suspected arson attack.

Crews were called to reports of flames and smoke coming from St Joseph’s Church, in St Michael’s Road, South Ham at around 7pm, after the fire broke out in a shed near to the church.

The fire then spread to the main building of the church, causing "significant damage" to its roof and exterior.

A 13-year-old and 14-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of arson and are helping police with their enquiries.

A member of the public captured the scene as H01P7 arrived first in attendance at St Joseph's pic.twitter.com/PmKQebr8EU

— Basingstoke Fire Sta (@Basingstoke_01) 27 July 2016

Thirty firefighters were called out to tackle the fire at its height.

Firefighters were able to surround the fire and prevent serious damage, but part of the church roof was damaged.

No one was injured in the blaze and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that a joint fire and police investigation will begin today to establish the cause of the fire.

Hampshire police say there is no suggestion the church was specifically targeted.

A 13-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy, both from Basingstoke, have been arrested on suspicion of arson.

Both have been bailed until September 28 pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information should call the Northern Investigation team on 101, quoting 44160280915.