Firefighters from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service responded to a significant woodland and scrubland fire near Gosport, where a large area of vegetation was damaged at Alver Valley Country Park in Lee-on-the-Solent. The incident prompted a major emergency response as crews worked for several hours to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading. (Hants Fire)
According to fire officials, crews from Gosport, Fareham, Waterlooville, and Havant were dispatched to the scene at around 6 p.m. after reports of a fire in the country park. Firefighters used multiple hose reels, beaters, and specialist wildfire equipment to tackle the flames across the affected scrubland. (Hants Fire)
The fire damaged a substantial area of woodland and dry vegetation, but firefighters successfully stopped it from spreading to nearby properties or causing more extensive damage. Crews remained at the scene carrying out damping-down operations and checking for hotspots to reduce the risk of reignition. (Hants Fire)
No injuries were reported in connection with the incident. Authorities have not announced the cause of the fire, and it has not been confirmed whether the blaze was accidental or deliberate. (Hants Fire)
The incident comes amid heightened wildfire concerns across Hampshire as warm temperatures and dry vegetation increase the risk of fast-moving outdoor fires. Fire officials continue to urge residents and visitors to exercise caution by avoiding the use of disposable barbecues, properly extinguishing cigarettes, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately. (Hants Fire)
Separately, Hampshire Police are investigating an earlier fire at a property on Orwell Close in Gosport, which caused significant damage but resulted in no reported injuries. Officers have appealed for witnesses and anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from the area to come forward as inquiries continue. (hampshire.police.uk)
Emergency services are asking members of the public to stay away from any active fire scenes, follow official safety advice, and monitor updates from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service for the latest information on incidents in the Gosport area.