A MAN has been arrested after a beauty salon was destroyed in a fire.

Residents were evacuated from properties neighbouring the Pretty Pascalle salon in Warren Road, Woodingdean last night.

The fire broke out at about 4am and left the salon and flat upstairs which is used as an office completely gutted.

A spokeswoman for Sussex Police said a 27-year-old man from Brighton has now been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and making threats to cause or destroy property.

Rachel Swinney Chief Inspector for Brighton and Hove said: “Both premises are used as a business and it was fortunate that no one was inside at the time of the fire.

“We are treating the fire as deliberate and targeted and would like to hear from anyone who may have information to assist our investigation.

“Did you notice anyone acting suspiciously in the area before the fire broke out? “You can report information to us either online or call 101 quoting reference 194 of 25/01.”