POLICE are investigating the exact cause of a fire that damaged three vehicles in East Cowes this afternoon (Thursday, July 14).

Fire crews from Newport tackled the fire, which started in a hedgerow in an alleyway between Princess Close and York Avenue at 2.45pm.

Firefighters were concerned as one of the three parked vehicles damaged in the fire had a propane gas canister inside. 

The fire was put out at around 3.30pm.

The County Press asked Hampshire Constabulary, who were requested to attend the fire by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, whether arson had been ruled out.

A police spokesperson said: "Officers are investigating the exact cause of a suspicious fire off Princess Close, East Cowes, which occurred around 2.45pm today."

Anyone with information which may assist police enquiries have been asked to call 101, quoting the reference 44220282424.