Deliberate hedge fires being investigated in Fordingbridge

Multiple hedges were reported ablaze in the New Forest town within a three-week period in October, which fire officials say were started deliberately and are being investigated by police.

Three very similar incidents, all within half a mile of each other, took place between October 11 to 27 – causing “upset and fear” for residents.

On-call firefighters from Fordingbridge were first called to a hedge alight in Ashford Close shortly after 6am on October 11. Two hose reels were used to stop the fire before the crew returned to station at around 50 minutes later.

Just over a week later on October 20, Fordingbridge and Ringwood crews were called to a hedge fire close to a house in Victoria Road at 7.20am. Firefighters again used two hose reels to stop the blaze before the Ringwood crew were stood down prior to their arrival.

Aerial image showing area of Fordingbridge subjected to deliberate hedge fires (Image: Google)

Lastly, a hedge in Victoria Gardens was well alight when Fordingbridge firefighters were called at 6.34am on October 27. Two hose reel jets were used to extinguish the blaze before the crew returned to station shortly before 7am.

Fire investigation officers and Hampshire Constabulary were informed of the incidents as they are believed to have been set deliberately.

One resident, who asked not to be named, told the Echo: “It would seem there is a serial arsonist intent on causing upset and fear in Fordingbridge. What reassurances are the police giving residents? It may only be a matter of time before a blaze endangers life.”

Station manager Pete White for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said: “There have been a number of incidents involving garden hedgerows set alight in Fordingbridge over the last couple of weeks.

Hampshire Fire Service station manager Pete White outside Fordingbridge Fire Station (Image: Newsquest)

“If these deliberate fires escalate and spread to a house or garage, we could have a major fire.

“The demands placed upon the fire service in dealing with these kinds of needless incidents means additional resources may have to be brought into the local area to tackle other incidents nearby, which may be more serious, perhaps even life-threatening.

“We encourage all Fordingbridge residents to be aware and report any suspicious behaviours to the police immediately by calling 101 or 999. If a fire is discovered dial 999 without delay.”

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson added: “The circumstances of this incident (October 27) are currently under investigation.

“Anyone with information should call us on 101 quoting 44220436385.”