Fareham man charged with arson after fire at city centre building

Philip Simmonds, 57, of Farm House Close in Fareham, has been charged with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered.

He will appear before Southampton Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, July 8.

As previously reported, emergency services were called at 6.43am on Monday, July 6, to reports of a fire at a building in The Square.

A man was arrested and treated for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.

(Image: John Banks)

A Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said at the time of the fire: "We are currently responding to a significant fire involving four properties in The Square, Winchester.

"Ten fire engines and specialist resources are in attendance, with firefighters working to bring the incident under control.

"Members of the public are asked to avoid the area while emergency services continue to respond to the incident. Please keep surrounding roads clear to ensure emergency vehicles can access the scene safely and without delay.

"We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation while crews continue to work at the scene. Further updates will be provided as the incident progresses."