A fire which destroyed a large part of a well-used pavilion is thought to have been started deliberately.

An arsonist is thought to have set fire to portable toilets behind Cheam Park's pavilion off Tudor Close last night. The resulting blaze spread to the building causing significant damage to the roof and changing rooms.

Sutton fire station's blue watch was called to the scene shortly before 9.30pm. They used high pressure hoses to put out the fire, which was burning strongly when the team arrived.

A spokesman said: "A fire investigation suggests it was started deliberately. It's not completely gutted but it's badly damaged. People aren't going to be able to use it for a while.

"The shop is still OK, we managed to save that."

The pavilion is used by a number of football teams, Cheam Park Croquet & Bowls Club, tennis players and other groups. The portable toilets are believed to have been left over following the Cheam Village Fair which was held at the park yesterday.

Police are investigating the fire. If you have information you can call 101 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.