POLICE have launched an arson probe after four people escaped from a flat fire in Hampshire.

Firefighters rushed to help the residents, one of which was a four-year-old-girl, after a fire at Jervis Drive, Gosport.

The incident took place between 9pm and 12am last night, in a first floor flat.

Police say four people were inside at the time.

Four people were inside the address at the time – a woman in her 50s, a man and woman in their 20s and a four year old girl.

All managed to escape from a window, but are believed to have suffered smoke inhalation.

The four-year-old was taken to Queen Alexander Hospital as a precaution.

Crews from Gosport, Fareham and Cosham all attended the incident.

A 28-year-old man from Gosport has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Officers are appealing for witnesses who may have seen someone acting suspiciously in the hours before and around the time of the fire.

If you can help, please call 101 quoting reference 44180400893.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting the same reference.