A doctor's surgery is expected to be closed until tomorrow (Wed) after an arson attack on the premises.

Police have launched an investigation into the fire early yesterday morning in a mobile building which serves as the North Bicester Surgery, in Holm Square.

A crew from Bicester attended the fire after smoke was seen coming out of the building.

The building suffered extensive smoke damage but was not destroyed. Fire officers are currently investigating how the blaze was started.

Dozens of patients had their appointments cancelled, although one room within the building was used for emergencies.

The surgery is run by Dr Andrew Gibson, who will be moving to a new 750,000 purpose-built surgery in Lucerne Avenue by Christ- mas.

Geraint Griffiths, the chief executive of the North East Oxfordshire Primary Care Group, said: "The fire brigade had to remove the floorboards to check if there was any fire underneath.

"The waiting room was filled with smoke and couldn't be used. Hopefully things should be operational by tomorrow."

A temporary floor was put in, to allow staff access to telephones, to contact patients who were due to visit the surgery today or tomorrow. They are also contacting other practices in the area for support.

A Thames Valley police spokesman said: "The damage was minor but we are treating it as arson."

An emergency phone advice line for patients, which will also deal with emergency prescriptions, has been set up, on 01869 323600.