High-rise tower block evacuated as fire breaks out

People living in a high-rise tower block have been evacuated after a fire on the 18th floor.

The blaze started in a communal area at Redbridge Towers, in Southampton, said the fire service.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said it received multiple calls at about 22.20 GMT on Saturday.

It said everyone was "safe and accounted for".

Ten fire engines, an aerial ladder platform and incident command vehicles were sent to the scene.

Firefighters used three jets to extinguish the flames and ventilated smoke-affected areas.

A joint investigation by police and fire services is under way.

Ward councillor Lee Whitbread said he was "deeply concerned" about the fire and thanked the emergency services for their "swift response".

He said: "At this stage, the exact cause remains unclear but I am relieved that no-one appears to have been injured.

"Southampton City Council recently completed the installation of sprinklers in Redbridge Towers as part of our commitment to fire safety.

"This incident highlights just how vital these systems are in protecting lives and property."

You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.