AN ARSON investigation has been launched after a fire in Sandown on Sunday.

Police are treating the fire, which took place in the stairwell of a derelict building on Carter Street, as arson.

Four fire engines — from Sandown, Shanklin and two from Ryde — were called to the scene on Sunday afternoon and police were informed as foul play was suspected.

The building was heavily smoke-logged and firefighters made sure no one was inside.