Man arrested after fifth Waterside hedge fire in a month

A MAN has been arrested following a fifth hedge fire in a month on the Waterside.

Police confirmed the 26-year-old, of no fixed abode, was held on suspicion of arson and burglary with intent to steal. He was later released under investigation, pending further enquiries.

As reported in the A&T, firefighters from Beaulieu and Hardley rushed to Rollestone Road, Holbury, just after 2am yesterday (Thursday) to tackle the hedge fire which they said was starting to spread to a nearby property.

It is the fifth such incident reported in the area after two hedge fires in Westbourne Avenue, Holbury, on 3rd November, and two more in Hythe’s Roman Road and Yelverton Avenue on 11th November.

Police launched an arson investigation after the Hythe blaze, where eight metres of hedge was set alight.

Following the arrest, Waterside police on social media congratulated the New Forest officers involved.

Anyone with information on the Rollestone Road fire should call 101, with the reference 44200475917.