Striking pictures show aftermath of Stokes Bay fires with ground smouldering after suspected arson

Smouldering grass has been left behind after fires broke out in Stokes Bay.

Crews from Fareham and Gosport rushed to the scene in Gosport this afternoon (August 25). Pictures show the aftermath of one of the two fires.

Hotspots were seen smoking and much of the terrain was severely burnt. The first fire took place in a Gorse field next to Lifeboat Lane at around 1.20pm. Firefighters had to use two hose reels and beaters to extinguish the blaze.

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The second fire was described by a Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) spokesperson was large, which spanned an open field east of the initial incident near Fort Gilkicker in Crescent Road.

Three fire engines and a water carrier are currently at the scene, with additional resources also being deployed. These incidents are suspected to be arson. “Police have been informed about these incidents,” a HIWFRS spokesperson added.

Eyewitness Lisa Verokken was near the scene and described what she saw. She told The News: “It spread so quickly and fire service were on the scene really quickly. We saw the smoke while we were on the beach.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said: “We are aware of two fires in the areas of Crescent Road and Lifeboat Lane, Gosport, this afternoon and will be liaising with our colleagues at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.”