Medics treat two people as guests and staff are evacuated

The fire broke out at the Hilton Hotel in Chilworth at 11.16am today.

Crews of 55 firefighters from eight stations across the Southampton area have been tackling the flames which is thought to have started in the hotel's sauna.

Meanwhile an Eastleigh FC match at Silverlake Stadium has been postponed after opponents Lincoln City FC were evacuated from the hotel.

It was hoped the team (see below) could return to the hotel at 2.20pm to pick up their kit and the match was at first delayed  for an hour. 

But they have not been allowed back as an investigation is carried out - and it was decided to call the game off.

Eight pumps from St Mary's, Hightown, Redbridge, Romsey, Eastleigh, Hamble and Fareham and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service dogs have been deployed.

Ambulances and police have also been arriving on the scene.

Brigade group manager Mark Raven said the service had been called to a “severe blaze” and added: “Subsequently there was an explosion and crews fought very hard to protect the building.

“It caused extensive damage to the rear of the property. It was a sizable explosion."

He added: “Due to the complexity of the building it took us a long time to deal with the fire. We are clearing out smoke from the building and we are starting an investigation.”

All the guests were evacuated but no-one was hurt. Two guests were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene by South Central Ambulance.

Currently teams from Scottish And Southern Energy are at the site as fire-fighters begin clearing away debris. Management of the hotel and staff have been waiting in the car park and helping with investigations.

The four star hotel is set within a wooded landscape, offering à la carte cuisine at the restaurant plus a 13-meter indoor pool, steam room and sauna where the fire is thought to have started.

Hotel manager Richard Groome told the Daily Echo: “It started in our leisure club and caused some damage to the health club. We are investigating and the guests are being looked after at another hotel.”

The 44 guests and staff who were evacuated have been moved to Chilworth Manor Hotel.

A statement released from Hilton Southampton later said: “We can confirm that at 11am a small fire was detected in the sauna of the Living Well Health Club facility. 

“The fire brigade was called immediately and the fire was quickly brought under control - with no injuries reported.

“The safety and security of our guests and team members is our utmost priority and all were evacuated from the building and subsequently moved to a local hotel – where we are currently offering any assistance required. 

“We would like to thank our guests for their understanding and cooperation throughout this period.”