THE roof of a block of flats in Hampshire has been destroyed by a fire that was caused by an electrical fault connected to solar panels.

Fire crews were called to the terraced block in Church Crookham just after 3pm on Wednesday, July 13.

Upon arrival, the crews found that the roof was well alight.

Firefighters from Basingstoke, Fleet, Hartley Wintney, Odiham and St Mary’s attended the fire, which was put out two hours later.

Group manager Craig Gregory said: “The most likely cause of this fire was an electrical fault connected to the solar panels on the roof.

“Our crews worked really hard in very hot and challenging conditions to quickly put the fire out and prevent further damage.

“Sadly, there was quite significant damage caused to one of the flats, with two further flats also damaged, and a partial collapse of the roof.”

Firefighters returned to Newton Drive on Thursday, July 14, to carry out community safety activity in the area.

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