There is local speculation that two vehicle fires occurring in Alton last weekend were started deliberately.

Hampshire Constabulary is on the case but has not yet drawn conclusions or made arrests.

Police are investigating a spate of car fires in Alton.
The burnt-out Vauxhall Insignia in Old Odiham Road, Alton (Hugo Berger)

A police spokesperson said: “Officers are investigating following two car fires in Alton.

“The vehicles - a Vauxhall Insignia and a Volkswagen Transporter van - were found alight, one in Old Odiham Road and one in Spitalfields Road, during the early hours of November 3.

“Police are investigating the circumstances around these incidents.”

Both vehicles had valid MoT test certificates. A Herald source said: “Considered opinion is there must have been an accelerant of some sort and it was arson.

“I slept through the incident, which happened at about 2am. I don’t know who owns the vehicles, but I am told they do not belong to the same person.”

Anyone with information should call Hampshire Constabulary on 101, quoting crime reference number 44240478307, or Crimestoppers anonymously and free on 0800 555111.