POLICE are appealing for information as they investigate an arson incident at a nature reserve in Tadley.

Yesterday evening (April 20), firefighters from Basingstoke and Tadley stations were called to a 'large fire' in the open at Wigmore Heath Park.

Posting on Twitter, Basingstoke Rural Police confirmed that the fire was "rapidly" extinguished, adding: "A group of youths have been stopped and searched in the area.

"This is still under investigation."

Posting about the impact of the crime, Tadley Fire Station added: "Yesterday we attended a gorse fire and it's one of the places we are called to regularly. Carelessness and deliberate acts that result in wildfires can be devastating to the local wildlife. We regularly find snakes, slow worms & even a bee hive that have been unable to escape the flames.

"Yesterday, while damping down, the crew were saddened to find a bird's nest full of chicks."

Officers are asking that anyone with information call 101 quoting crime reference number 44210149969.

Alternatively, you can report online at: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/