An investigation is under way after a suspected arson attack at a derelict day centre in Teddington.

Firefighters spent two hours battling the blaze, which broke out at the Avenue Centre, in Normansfield Avenue, at about 7.10pm on Monday.

About 15 firefighters from Twickenham and Kingston fire stations fought to control the blaze which caused damage to the ground floor of the derelict council-owned building.

The fire was under control by 9.15pm.

The blaze is being treated as arson and a police investigation is under way.

A Richmond police spokeswoman said a number of the centre’s windows had been smashed and drug equipment had been found inside the building, which was due to be demolished in 2007.

A Richmond Council spokesman said: “Officers from the council were at the site on Monday night, together with the fire brigade who extinguished the fire.

“We have ensured the site is structurally secure to protect against any further damage and are continuing to work with the fire brigade to determine the cause of the fire.”

Anyone with information should call Twickenham police station on 020 8247 7032.