Fire crews from across Hampshire tackled a large agricultural blaze near Titchfield on Monday evening after a combine harvester caught fire and the flames spread into standing crops.
Rapid response across the county
Multiple callers reported the incident shortly before 17:00 BST, prompting an extensive response. In total, around 40 firefighters attended and used several hose reel jets to bring the fire under control. Farm machinery was also deployed on site to create fire breaks and prevent the fire spreading further.
"The incident began with a fire involving a combine harvester, which initially spread to one field. As the incident developed, it spread into a second field, with the total area affected growing to approximately 30 hectares of standing crop."
Engines from Fareham, Gosport and Portchester remained at the scene into the evening. They were supported by specialist appliances and crews from Eastleigh, Havant, Lyndhurst, Hardley, Beaulieu and Andover, together with the incident command unit from the fire service headquarters.
Scale of the damage and local disruption
Firefighters estimate the blaze affected roughly 30 hectares (about 74 acres) of standing crop after crossing from one field into another. Smoke from the fire was reported to be visible from the M27 and was noticed by motorists approaching Fareham; some residents in Fareham reported smelling smoke and seeing ash carried on the wind.
- Location: Off Meon Road, near Titchfield
- Time reported: Just before 17:00 BST
- Approximate area affected: 30 hectares
- Crews on scene: Around 40 firefighters and multiple appliances
By later evening the main fire had been extinguished, and crews remained at the site to check for hotspots and continue damping down.
Practical information for residents and road users
Members of the public were asked to avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services to operate. Drivers using the M27 and local roads around Fareham and Titchfield should be aware that smoke can reduce visibility and may cause an unpleasant odour; anyone experiencing respiratory irritation is advised to move indoors and seek fresh air if needed.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Initial cause | Fire involving a combine harvester |
| Area affected | Approximately 30 hectares of standing crop |
| Fire service resources | Crews from multiple Hampshire stations and incident command unit |
Local farmers and landowners were reported to have assisted by using farm machinery to create containment breaks around the burning areas. The fire service thanked those who kept clear of the scene while crews dealt with the incident.
Hampshire residents with concerns about smoke or property damage should contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service or the local council for further information.
