A BUSY Hampshire was closed last night to enable workmen to repair damage caused by a horsebox fire.

The A337 - one of the main north-south routes across the New Forest - was shut between Cadnam and Lyndhurst while resurfacing took place.

A weight restriction on the road was suspended to enable to project to proceed.

Read more: Road closed after horsebox catches fire

Daily Echo: The A337 was closed to enable workmen to repair damage caused by a horsebox fireThe A337 was closed to enable workmen to repair damage caused by a horsebox fire (Image: Social media)

The fire, which occurred near the Minstead junction, was reported shortly after 6am on Wednesday.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "The driver and the horse were safely away from the vehicle as crews from Brockenhurst and Redbridge arrived on scene.

"A specialist water carrier from Eastleigh Fire Station was also in attendance as firefighters in breathing apparatus used hose reels to stop the fire which destroyed the horsebox.

"Crews liaised with the Highways Agency and local council to ensure the road was made safe and cleaned of oil which had leaked from the vehicle."

Daily Echo: The horsebox was destroyed in the blaze. Picture: Redbridge Fire StationThe horsebox was destroyed in the blaze. Picture: Redbridge Fire Station (Image: Redbridge Fire Station)

The A337 was closed both ways from Furzy Lawn Lane to Brockishill Road.

Posting on social media Redbridge Fire Station said: “Horse box fire on A337 owner and animals all fine but please avoid the area as the road will be closed due to damage caused by the incident.”

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