FIREFIGHTERS were today tackling a major incident after 60,000 litres of used cooking oil went up in flames.

More than 40 firefighters were tackling the blaze at a steel framed building in Droxford Road, Swanmore.

Crews from Bishops Waltham, Droxford, Wickham, Fareham, Winchester and Eastleigh were at the site, following a 999 call at 5.48am.

Environment Agency bosses were also drafted in because of the threat.

A fire service spokesman said minimal amounts of water could be used to deal with the blaze because of the nature of the material.

It is expected to become a serious HAZMAT (hazardous material)incident as the morning goes on.