POLICE have traced the relatives of a man whose body was found in a fire-ravaged house.

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the blaze, which swept through a chalet bungalow at Winchester Road, Crampmoor, just before 7am on Wednesday.

Neighbours said the property was occupied by an elderly man who lived alone.

Firefighters managed to prevent the flames spreading to the two neighbouring properties but one was left with large scorch marks on the side wall.

Winchester Road residents saw smoke billowing from the bungalow, followed by flames emerging from the front of the building as the blaze took hold.

The road was closed for four hours as fire crews from across Hampshire dealt with the emergency.

The huge amount of smoke created by the fire resulted in residents being told to keep their doors and windows shut. Drivers who normally pass through Crampmoor on their way to work were urged to avoid the area.

A police spokesperson said: "The body of a man was located inside the address. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

"His next of kin have been informed, although formal identification has not yet taken place.

"Enquiries are underway to determine the cause of the fire."

Crews from five fire stations - Romsey, Redbridge, Eastleigh, St Mary’s and Hightown - dealt with the incident.

Winchester Road was closed in both directions between its junctions with Halterworth Lane and Crampmoor Lane.