West End residents tell of arsons in Telegraph Woods

Parents in the West End area are being asked to warn their children of the dangers of starting fires after a string of arsons in Telegraph Woods.

Resident and member of the Telegraph Woods Nature Recovery Group, Russell Prince-Wright, 66, said: “I have now seen four fire brigade teams called out to the woods already this summer – all before the school holidays have even begun.

“While these teens might think its just harmless fun – Telegraph Woods is on peat-based ground meaning the embers often reignite when the blaze has been stamped out.

“The last incident on Tuesday evening could have resulted in a major blaze – with the woods being surrounded by homes which could easily be at risk.

“If these arsons continue, I’m fearful for the summer.”

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This comes after a string of similar arsons in a woodland near Wilmington Close, Southampton, which has also seen large groups of teens roaming around and armed with lighters.

The smouldering peat-ground (Image: NQ) Russell continued: “At a minimum callout cost of around £500 per hour this stupidity will only add to further council tax rises, which I am sure, none of us want.

“It appeared one group were even using school worksheets to get the blazes started.”

Peat ground, as found in Telegraph Woods is at risk of fire primarily because of its composition – with it often being dry and organic material rich in carbon which can easily act as a fuel.

The hot weather in recent weeks also contributes to the risk of fire.

Russell Prince-Wright (Image: NQ) A spokesperson for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Hightown firefighters were alerted to a small fire deep seated in peat in Telegraph Woods, West End.

“The crew were called shortly after 5pm yesterday evening and firefighters dug out the soil and extinguished the fire with buckets of water.

“Hampshire Fire and Rescue returned to station shortly after 6pm.”