Gosport wildfire tackled by firefighters

At around half one this afternoon firefighters were alerted to a wildfire off Crescent Road in Gosport.

Fire engines, off-road vehicles and water carriers were called to the scene which was well alight when crews arrived.

Heavy smoke was emanating from the fire, so nearby roads were closed and residents advised to avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed.

The fire involving gorse, trees and grassland was tackled using hose reels, jets and beaters.

Once the fire was surrounded, relief crews who arrived to take over from the firefighters first on the scene, worked to dampen down the affected area.

Firefighters left the scene at around eight o’clock, with one crew set to return later this evening to inspect the area and check for any remaining hotspots.

This summer our prevention teams have been patrolling certain arson hotspots, including this one in Gosport, and police have been notified as it is believed this fire was set deliberately.

With the school break now here, most kids will want to be out enjoying the sunshine with their mates. We ask that parents speak to their children, encourage them to avoid setting fires and follow our guidance this summer – https://bit.ly/ReduceWildfireRisk