AN ARSON investigation has been launched by police after a boat was set alight in the New Forest.

Police have arrested a 22-year-old man as enquiries continue over the incident in Burnt House Lane, Bransgore, on Friday, February 25.

Officers were on patrol in the area following concerns around criminal damage and anti-social behaviour, when they came across the boat blaze.

The fire was extinguished by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service teams, while three people were seen to flee the area in a vehicle towards Bransgore village.

Police conducted house-to-house enquiries to establish the exact circumstances leading up to the incident.

A 22-year-old man from Bransgore handed himself in to Southampton Central Station on Saturday, February 26, and he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of arson and causing criminal damage. He was later released on conditional bail.

Chief Inspector Helen Andrews, New Forest District Commander, said: "We are fully aware of the impact that incidents like this not only have on the victims of these crimes, but also the wider community.

“Local residents may have seen an increased police presence in the area during the last few days as we continue our enquiries into this incident.

“We will also have officers conducting high-visibility patrols over the coming days and weeks to provide reassurance to local residents – so if you have any further information or particular concerns that you would like to raise to us, then please do speak to one of our officers.

“We want to ensure that the Bransgore community remains a safe place to live and we will be doing everything in our power to make sure that those responsible for these crimes and brought to justice.”