A MAJOR fire at a block of apartments in Oakridge was caused by an electrical fault, the fire service has confirmed.

More than 80 firefighters tackled the blaze at the block in Oakridge Road at around 3pm on Saturday, May 27, which has left 24 families displaced.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s fire investigation team has been at the scene since the fire started and has now concluded its investigation.

Read more: Photos show extent of damage caused by fire in Oakridge 

A spokesperson for the service said the cause was found to be “an electrical fault”.

The Gazette has asked the fire service for further information. 

Crews were sent to the incident at 3.20pm on May 27 where the roof and second floor of the building were ablaze.

Dozens of residents were evacuated during the fire, with 24 families unable to return because of the damage.

Families have told how the fire 'spread within seconds' as they were forced to flee their homes.

See also: Families fled burning building as fire 'spread within seconds'

A fund has been set up by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Basingstoke Voluntary Action to support the families whose homes have been destroyed.

The borough council said the fund was launched "in response to lots of offers of help from the community for those who lost their homes and possessions in the fire".

This has now gone live via a Charities Aid Foundation donate page at bvaction.org.uk/oakridge-road-fire-fund.