A FIRE which led to ten people to be evacuated from a Taunton property was started 'deliberately', the fire service has said. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were called at 7.10am today (September 17) to reports of a small fire at a house of multiple occupancy.

Two fire engines from Taunton were sent to the scene and police and ambulance were also called to the scene.

A spokesman for the fire service said ten people were evacuated from the property and one person, who was rescued by a fellow resident, has been taken to hospital for treatment.

"We were called to reports of a fire of a three storey house of multiple occupancy in Cheddon Road.

"Ten people were evacuated from the property and one person was rescued by one of the other occupants.

"Crews provided first aid to the person by a fellow occupant and they have been taken to hospital for further treatment.

"It was a small fire which started in the rear bedroom of the property.

"Fire investigations are continuing and one fire appliance remains at the scene.

"The cause of the fire was found to be deliberate. Police attended the scene, along with a fire investigation officer."

The fire service said residents will be unable to enter the property for some time. 

The County Gazette has contacted Avon and Somerset Police and South Western Ambulance Service for comment.