A man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after 140 cars were destroyed in a fire near Gatwick airport.

Police and fire crew were called to the large fire in Caldyne Business Park in Rowfant, near Crawley, West Sussex, at around 9pm on Saturday.

It is understood the car park is used mainly for travellers going to Gatwick.

Huge flames and thick smoke were pictured on Saturday night before a 67-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson.

He was bailed as an investigation continued, Sussex Police said. 

Eight fire engines and two water carriers brought the blaze under control overnight as more than 2,000 homes had their power cut after the fire damaged high-voltage equipment near the car park.

Members of the public have been told to avoid the area.

There are believed to be no casualties from the fire. 

Fire crews battled a large fire near Gatwick airport on Saturday evening, after which a man was arrested on suspicion of arson

The 67-year-old man has been bailed as an investigation continues, police said

Around 100 cars are believed to have been burned during the fire at a car park mainly used for travellers heading to Gatwick, it is understood (file pic)

Sussex Police has been contacted for comment.