SEVERAL families had to be evacuated after a suspicious fire.

The blaze broke out on Saturday afternoon in a building which is used for car repairs in Landing Lane, Haxby, near York.

Several houses were evacuated after firefighters became concerned that gas canisters inside the garage might explode.

A police spokesman said that about six houses were thought to be in danger from the fire, as the building contained both oxy-acetylene and LPG cylinders, which could have caused an explosion if reached by the blaze.

Most of those who had to be evacuated went to stay with family or friends, but six adults and three children spent Saturday night in accommodation arranged by council officers.

The fire caused electricity to be cut off in the area and power was not restored until Sunday.

All the residents were allowed back to their homes on Sunday morning.

Three youths were arrested in connection with the incident and released on police bail after questioning.