Several organisations which use the centre in Islington Road have been forced to cancel activities, or find alternative venues.

The timber-framed building was severely damaged by the blaze which happened shortly after 4am on Monday.

It is believed flames spread to the premises from a fire in a nearby wheeled bin. No injuries were reported but a corner of the building housing the women's toilets was gutted.

Towcester Town Council acts as trustees for the centre. It said the full cost of the damage will not be known until insurance loss adjustors complete their analysis next week.

Town councillor David Linney said: "It's just a crying shame that things like this happen, especially when you consider the centre was refurbished and re-painted this year."

Cllr Linney said the closure would hit a wide range of groups which used the centre, including several mother and toddler groups, the Towcester Toy Library and the Vision Youth Cafe.

Martin Cain, a volunteer for the Youth Cafe that launched last year, said the group runs three sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights when young people can meet, play computer games, listen to music and get involved in community projects.

He said: "We are not going to be able to get back in there for a month or two so we've got to find a temporary home. It affects us quite badly. Everything we were working on has just had to stop."

Luke Hudson, fire protection manager for the Northants Fire and Rescue Service, said current evidence suggested the fire was started in a wheelie bin and the flames spread to the building.

A spokesperson for Northants Police confirmed that the fire was being treated as arson, and urged anyone who can help police inquiries to contact them on 08453 700700, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.