Aftermath of Netley Common fire – pictures and video

We were shocked, and fair to say saddened yesterday to be the first to report on a fire on Netley Common. 

Crews from both Hightown and Fareham firestations were unable to access the fire close enough with their engines. Instead, they had to use beaters and a hose reel jet to extinguish the blaze. They were successful in doing so at around 6:50pm.

As mentioned by a witness at the time of the fire, two youngsters were seen leaving the scene shortly after 5:15pm leading to suggestions that the fire was deliberately started.

If started deliberately, this serves to reinforce the increase in anti-social behaviour in and around the area. Its prevalence has been acknowledged by police recently and they’ve made it a priority to tackle.

One of our reporters took a walk to find the aftermath. With the gauze bushes in situ, it’s not an easy find at first, but we’ve included some images and videos of the damage caused.

Quite clearly, if a deliberate act,  there was no regard at all for the wildlife in the area, nor the resources needed to contain the blaze. We can only hope that those responsible will learn very quickly.

For the latest news in your local area, join our Facebook group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/southamptonneighbourhoodwatch/