Lorry destroyed in £50,000 arson attack on Hythe business park

AN overnight arson attack destroyed a lorry and part of a company building at an industrial estate in Hythe.

Around 20 firefighters battled the inferno which consumed the vehicle and spread to a nearby lean-to attached to premises at Trident Business Park, off Shore Road. It caused £50,000 of damage, but no one was reported to have been injured.

The alarm was raised shortly after midnight on Saturday, and crews from Hythe, Hardley, Beaulieu, Totton and St Mary’s spent over two hours containing the emergency. They had to use breathing apparatus and an aerial ladder platform.

Police have launched an investigation, and people are being asked to come forward if they witnessed any suspicious activity around the time of the blaze.

Nearby businesses and residents who may have private CCTV footage of the scene from that night are particularly urged to get in touch with officers.

Anyone with information should contact Hampshire Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 44180422357, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.