A ROOM in a shletered housing complex was badly damaged in a fire this morning (Monday).

Three fire engines from Taunton Fire Station were sent to the incident in Trinity Road, Taunton, at 8.54am.

Firefighters, who were greeted by smoke issuing from the property, confirmed that all residents were accounted for.

Four of them entered the building wearing breathing apparatus and set to work with one hose reel jet and one safety jet.

Crews also used a thermal image camera to ensure all hot spots were extinguished and then used positive pressure ventilation fans to clear the property of any smoke.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Crews confirmed the fire was within a ground floor bedroom and caused extensive smoke damage.

"The cause of the fire has been confirmed as deliberate and the police have been called to attend the address."