Southampton: Wheelie bins torched in Shirley 'arson attack'

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called to Malmesbury Road after receiving reports of the incident. 

One crew from Redbridge rushed to the scene just after midnight to put out the flames. 

A spokesperson for the force said: "Redbridge firefighters were called to a fire involving three wheelie bins on Malmesbury Road shortly after midnight. 

"The crew used a hose reel to dampen down the bins which were already out when they arrived. 

"Police were informed as it is believed the fire was set deliberately."

The crew left the scene at 12.32am on Tuesday after making sure the fire was contained. 

Residents have expressed their shock.

A woman who didn't want to be named said: "Me and my husband had just put our newborn baby to sleep when we heard a loud bang on our door. 

"I thought it was just a prank but my husband looked out of the window and saw the fire. 

"We ran out and started pouring buckets of water to put it out and then thankfully the firefighters came round. 

"It was so shocking and scary."

Three bins were put on fire on Malmesbury Road (Image: Newsquest)

Another woman who also lives in the area, said: "I was woken up by a woman knocking on my door. 

"She told me there was a fire and that I need to get out of my house."

The woman, 30, added: "I don't know how the fire started but I hope something like this never happens again.

"I have lived here for about two years and something like this has never happened." 

The incident has sparked concerns and worries among families and individuals. 

They hope this was the first and last instance of its sort in the community.

A spokesperson for Hampshire police said: "We were called at 12.34am (on Tuesday) to a report of three bins on fire on Malmesbury Road.

"This incident has currently been filed pending any further lines of enquiry becoming available.

"This will be reviewed should any new information come to light."