Police launch arson investigation after New Forest firefighters battle blaze which destroys bungalow near Ipers Bridge in Holbury

POLICE have launched an arson investigation into a blaze that destroyed a derelict bungalow in Holbury in the early hours.

The alarm was raised around 2.15am last Friday, and firefighters from across the New Forest spent several hours battling the flames inside the building near Ipers Bridge.

Two propane cylinders had to be removed as the inferno brought down the roof, forcing the crews to fight it from outside.

The team, from Hardley, Hythe and Beaulieu, joined by colleagues from Redbridge, brought the emergency under control.

A relief crew from St Mary’s then took over and continued damping down the scene until around 8.15am the following morning.

Another crew returned later to check for remaining hotspots.

The fire service alerted police amid suspicions the blaze had been started deliberately.

A spokesperson for the Hampshire force said: “We were called by the fire service at 2.20am on 28th April to a report of an arson incident at an address near Ipers Bridge.

“This remains under investigation.”

Those with information should contact officers on 101, quoting reference 44230165891, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.