THE British Heart Foundation shop in King Street has been badly damaged by a fire which broke out last night.

Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service received multiple calls about the incident, which was first reported at 11.43pm.

Four fire engines were sent to the scene, from Swindon, Stratton and Westlea, supported by the aerial appliance from Swindon and a control unit from Stratton.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the blaze, using two hose reel jets. A thermal imaging camera was also used to check for fire spread.

An investigation concluded that the fire started with the deliberate ignition of a wheelie bin at the rear of the premises, with the flames spreading to the roof.

The shop will be closed for the rest of the day but anyone wanting to make donations is asked to call 08442 489 119.