Firefighters were called to a small fire at Lunar House last night after reports flickering could be seen by a first floor window.

The crew from Croydon fire station were called to the headquarters of the UK Border Agency, in Wellesley Road at 9.05pm.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and found a water cooler was on fire.

One firefighter said: "The water cooler had ignited, it may have been left on or dried out.

"There was not much damage done and the fire was extinguished quickly."

The UK Border Agency confirmed the public enquiry office was unable to deal with applications due to the fire.

A statement said: "There has been a fire at Croydon public enquiry office which has impacted their ability to accept payments.

"This means that the public enquiry office is unable to deal with any customers who have who have booked the premium appointment service for today (January 20, 2012).

"All customers affected are advised to re-book their appointments.

"Postal application customers are unaffected and this service will continue as normal."