AN ABANDONED van went up in flames in an "arson" attack. 

Residents became alarmed after smelling "burning" in Aldermoor Road, Southampton.

Daily Echo:

A white Ford Transit dumped in a cutaway had gone up in flames at around 10.30pm.

One resident who wished to remain unnamed told how there were explosions sparked by fuel.

She described seeing a large inferno which was "absolutely awful".

Daily Echo:

The wreckage remains on the scene today with debris strewn all about.

According to residents, the van had been abandoned three weeks-ago and stripped of parts.

Daily Echo:

The incident is being recorded as arson. 

A police spokesperson said: "The Fire Service called us at 10.30pm last night (September 26) reporting a vehicle fire in Aldermoor Road, close to the junction of Upper Brown Hill Road.

"Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) dealt with the fire. It’s been recorded as an arson and the matter has been filed pending any further information coming to light."

The Daily Echo has contacted HFRS for comment.

Anyone with information urged to call police on 101 quoting 44200374526