A car has been destroyed after it went up in flames in the middle of a park.

Shocking pictures show the vehicle engulfed by the blaze and the aftermath of the incident in Mansel Park.

Around thirty 999 calls were made to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Service before 1am this morning.

Firefighters from Redbridge raced to the scene and discovered the car alight in the play park.

Daily Echo: The fire in Mansel ParkThe fire in Mansel Park (Image: Lee Whitbread)

It is believed the fire was set deliberately.

According to the fire service, police were informed before firefighters left the scene at around 1.30am.

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Redbridge councillor Lee Whitbread said: “The burnt wreckage is currently near to the multi-use games area in the park and council staff have been onsite to inspect the situation.

“My colleague Councillor Sally Goodfellow and I have alerted the abandoned vehicle team at the city council and have asked that processes be put in place to arrange its swift removal.

“Not only does this reckless behaviour risk taking precious resources away from our fire service but it also puts the health and safety of park users at risk.

“If anybody has any information relating to the person or persons who are involved in the arson, I would urge them to contact the police on 101.”