Beaulieu man arrested over suspected barn arson attack

POLICE have arrested a man on suspicion of arson in connection with a fire that ripped through a barn containing 350 tons of hay and straw.

Firefighters were called to the blaze at Hazel Copse Farm in Hatchet Lane, Beaulieu, just after 9.15pm on Saturday.

Crews from the village were joined by colleagues from Brockenhurst, Eastleigh, Hardley, Hythe, Lyndhurst and St Mary's.

The farm is owned by the Dolbear family, who were unavailable for comment when approached by the A&T.

The arrested 36-year-old, who police confirmed was from the village, has since been released but remains under investigation.

Following the incident, Beaulieu fire station tweeted: “We were mobilised to a fully developed barn fire in Beaulieu involving 350 tons of hay and straw, [with] temperatures exceeding 1100C.”

Beaulieu firefighter Chris Morley posted on Facebook: “It's always hard to see a farmer watch his livelihood burn to the ground."

Locals offered their support to the family, with one commenting: “Our hearts go out to the lovely Dolbear family, who have worked so hard over the years.”