HUNDREDS of workers at Swindon's Threadneedle Investments were evacuated after a faulty microwave caused a small fire.

More than 350 employees from 11 different floors vacated the building, in Station Road next to Swindon Railway Station.

Two appliances, one from Swindon Central Fire Station and the other from Westlea Station attended. Firefighters were at the scene for 40 minutes and carried out an inspection

Matt Blay, acting lead firefighter, said: "There was a tiny fire in a microwave which triggered the fire alarm. I am happy with the emergency procedures."

Richard Eats, communications director at Threadneedle Investments, part of Zurich Financial Services, said: "It might have been the time someone was heating a baked potato but it was a minor incident.

"Everyone was evacuated in the usual manner and very quickly."