Pictures show aftermath of fire near Oasis Academy in Lordshill

Firefighters tackled the blaze in a field off Romsey Road near the Oasis Academy Lordshill on Friday at around 12.15pm.

Emergency services said they received 45 999 calls about this incident, which saw 15 firefighters rush to the scene.

The aftermath of the fire near Romsey Road in Southampton. Photo taken by Martin Whitaker

Hampshire police have since said they believe this to be a result of arson.

In a post online, an officer said: “We have had several reports of young people setting fires in the area. We believe this to be linked and this was a deliberate act of arson.

READ MORE: WATCH the moment shocked onlookers capture fire destroying a park

“This fire was set on ground that was so dry it spread rapidly and with ferocious intensity.

“This outcome could have been very different. Nearby houses, Cedar School, Oasis Academy and road users and pedestrians on Romsey (Road) were put at risk."

The road was closed to motorists while firefighters tackled the blaze which damaged an area of 200 metres by 50 metres.

The environmental damage is yet to be established and it is uncertain what wildlife was harmed or killed in this fire.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 quoting 44220326585.

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