Crews tackle heathland fire that spread from van

Firefighters have worked through the night after a van caught fire and the flames spread to heathland in the New Forest, creating a smoke plume visible for miles.

The fire broke out on the A31 near Ringwood, Hampshire, shortly after 17:20 BST on Sunday, forcing some motorists to abandon their vehicles.

Twenty-six fire crews alongside water carriers and specialist off-road units were sent to the scene as the flames quickly spread.

National Highways said the dual carriageway remained closed westbound between the M27 at junction 2 for Ower and the A338 at Ringwood and eastbound between the A338 and M27 junction 1 for Cadnam.

Smoke from the fire drifted across both sides of the Solent, prompting fire crews to urge people to keep doors and windows shut.

The fire service said a large hose had been laid from Hightown Lake, just east of Ringwood, to supply water to crews tackling the blaze.

In some areas, the hose crosses tracks and passes through private property.

Residents have been urged not to drive over it, as doing so could damage the pipe and disrupt the water supply needed to fight the fire.

Police have advised motorists who had to leave their vehicles behind to call 101 with their number plate details so arrangements can be made for them to get them back.

Traffic travelling westbound is being diverted onto the A326 towards Ashurst Bridge and then onto the A338 to the Ashley Heath roundabout to rejoin the A31.

Traffic travelling eastbound is being diverted onto the A338 towards Bournemouth.

National Highways said there was significant damage to the road surface and crash barrier following the fire and oil spillage from the burnt out vehicle.

It said there was no estimated time for reopening the road.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service said it had received more than 160 emergency calls reporting the initial vehicle fire.

The New Forest is home to a large variety of wildlife, including wild ponies, deer, rare birds, reptiles and insects that live in its abundant woodland, heathland and wetlands.