Crews called to burnt-out van in West Wittering

Crews from East Wittering Fire Station were called to reports of a van on fire in Elms Lane, West Wittering at 11.19pm on Wednesday.

The van and a lawnmower inside were completely destroyed by the fire, a spokesman for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed.

The incident has been handed to Sussex Police.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “Our retained crew at East Wittering Fire Station were mobilised to reports of a vehicle on fire on Elms Lane, West Wittering on Wednesday evening.

“Joint Fire Control received the 999 call at 11.19pm, and once on scene the crew was faced with a well developed fire involving a van. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used one hose reel to extinguish the fire.

“The van and a lawnmower inside were both completely destroyed by the fire, which is believed to have been started deliberately. Sussex Police have been informed.

“The crew booked away from the scene at 12.45am.”