Winnall Moors: Definite cause of nature reserve fire still not known

Crews from Winchester, St Mary’s, Eastleigh and Alresford were called to the scene at 4.38pm after the fire was reported. The fire broke out within the reed beds in the reserve.

The fire was extinguished by the crews using ten beaters and two jets.

A stop message came in shortly before 6.30pm, with one crew later returning to conduct a reinvestigation and check for further hotspots.

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Hampshire Fire Service has confirmed the fire is not thought to be suspicious, and that the definite cause is yet to be established.

The Chronicle has contacted the police.

A Hampshire Fire Service spokesperson said: “Winchester, St Mary’s, Eastleigh and Alresford firefighters were called at to Winnall Nature Reserve at 4.38pm on Bank Holiday Monday after a fire broke out creating a large plume of smoke.

“The fire measuring approximately 100 metres square of reeds was extinguished using ten beaters and two jets.

“The stop message came in shortly before 6.30pm with one crew returning later in the evening to conduct a reinspection and check for further hotspots.”