Four fire crews battled a fierce caravan fire at Park Dean Holiday Park on Hayling Island last night. The award-winning site, known for winning the British Travel Awards’ “Best Camping & Mobile Holiday Company,” was transformed into a scene resembling a war zone, according to shocked guests.
The blaze broke out just after 9pm on Sunday and quickly spread as gas cylinders exploded within the tightly packed caravan units. One man was rushed to hospital by ambulance and is currently recovering from the incident.
Firefighters from Hayling Island, Havant, Cosham, and Portchester fought the fire for nearly three hours. A Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) from South Central Ambulance Service also joined the emergency efforts. Crews faced significant challenges due to a poor water hydrant system on site, which forced them to lay hoses across the main road to tackle the flames. Four firefighters in breathing apparatus worked relentlessly to prevent the fire from spreading further.
One static home, valued at around £30,000, was completely gutted by the fire, while two others suffered external damage. Site managers reportedly stood back as crews battled the fire but declined to comment, citing distressed guests. The park remains closed while police and the Fire Arson Investigation Task Force investigate the cause of the blaze. Emergency services have sealed off the area, maintaining a heavy presence at the scene.
“It looked like a war zone – it was very frightening, especially for our children and pets, with loud explosions and huge flames towering over the site,” said eyewitness Mandy Jones.
Originally published by UKNIP.
