AN investigation is underway after a fire at the University of York, which is believed to be an arson attack.

Five fire engines were called to Wentworth College on the Heslington campus at about 1.40pm on Tuesday.

Students and staff were evacuated from the college after fire alarms were activated.

A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "On arrival crews found a paper tile on fire, which caused less than five per cent damage to a false ceiling tile.

"It is believed to have been started deliberately."

A spokesperson for the university added: "An initial investigation revealed a small fire had been started close to a toilet facility but fortunately failed to take hold.

"No-one was injured and staff and students were allowed back into the building a short time later after the building was declared safe."

The university is also investigating a theft from a till at Wentworth College on Tuesday afternoon.

"Both the fire and theft are being investigated and we would urge anyone who has any information to contact the authorities," the university spokesperson said.