THIS is the dramatic scene that confronted firefighters who were called to a blaze in the New Forest.

Crews arrived at the scene in Long Copse, Holbury, to find an Open Reach van engulfed in flames and the fire threatening to spread to nearby buildings.

The blaze, which has been reported to police, broke out at around 1.30am.

Hardley Fire Station tweeted: "On arrival flames were towering towards nearby trees and threatening to spread to nearby buildings.

"One hosereel jet and two breathing apparatus (sets) used to bring flames under control and prevent the spread."

A Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said a crew from Hardley fire station was sent to the scene at 1.46am.

They added that the blaze destroyed a transit van.

"The fire was extinguished using two breathing apparatus and a hose reel jet," said the spokesperson.

"There was no sign of fire spread to the building and the stop message came in at 02.46.

"Police were informed of this incident."