A BEACH hut on Portland was destroyed in a fire early today.

Firefighters were alerted to the scene near the Old Higher Lighthouse at around 4am.

Portland firecrews were on scene in less than 10 minutes and extinguished the blaze. Police officers also attended the scene in a secluded spot near the coast path towards Portland Bill.

A Dorset Fire and Rescue spokesman said the beach hut and contents were destroyed in the blaze, believed to have been started deliberately.

A spokeswoman for Dorset Police said: "We attended at Dorset Fire and Rescue's request in support of them.

"If there is an investigation required we will assist them."