FLAMES ripped through a lorry transporting household waste on Monday – but the cause of the fire is still unknown.

A Veolia lorry caught alight in Ringwood Road in Netley Marsh on Monday afternoon.

The road was closed in both directions for a number of hours as Hampshire fire crews battled the blaze.

Daily Echo: Photo by Alice-Rose Mole Photo by Alice-Rose Mole

Around 40 per cent of the vehicle’s load was destroyed before the fire was extinguished by crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge and Eastleigh.

An investigation by Veolia is underway to determine the cause.

READ MORE: Busy road closed in both directions as fire rips through lorry - as it happened

A spokesperson said: “The vehicle was immediately evacuated ensuring everyone was safe and the driver alerted the emergency services who extinguished the fire.

“The safety of our staff is extremely important to us and an investigation into the cause is underway.

“In the meantime, we continue to urge Hampshire residents to avoid disposal of waste that could lead to fire, such as unwanted electricals and spent batteries, in their kerbside waste and follow the guidance provided.”

Fire crews left the scene after 6pm the same day.

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