A BODY has been found at the scene of a fire which reduced a Hampshire bungalow to a charred ruin.

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the blaze, which swept through a detached property at Winchester Road, Crampmoor, just before 7am yesterday. 

Firefighters managed to prevent the flames spreading to the two neighbouring properties but one was left with large scorch marks on the side wall.

Neighbours said they saw smoke billowing from the bungalow, followed by flames emerging from the front of the building as the blaze took hold.

Winchester Road was closed for four hours as fire crews from across Hampshire dealt with the emergency.

The huge amount of smoke created by the fire resulted in residents being told to keep their doors and windows shut. Drivers who normally pass through Crampmoor on their way to work were urged to avoid the area.

Anne and Ken Meader, who live next door to the bungalow, had to leave their home amid fears the fire-ravaged property could collapse.

Mrs Meader said: "I was woken at around 6.30am and heard a loud bang - it sounded like something falling off the roof.

"My husband looked out and saw smoke coming from the property next door. We rang 999 before getting dressed and going out the front door."

Asked about the extent of the damage she said: "The whole house has gone."

A police spokesperson added: "We were called just after 7am to a report of a fire at an address at Winchester Road, Crampmoor.

"A body has been found inside the address. Enquiries are underway to determine the cause of the fire."

Crews from five fire stations - Romsey, Redbridge, Eastleigh, St Mary's and Hightown - dealt with the incident.

Winchester Road was closed in both directions between its junctions with Halterworth Lane and Crampmoor Lane until around 10.40am.

Drivers approaching the road blocks reported seeing a long line of fire engines and other vehicles from the emergency services, including an ambulance.

At least one of the vehicles had to park outside the Mandarin Chinese restaurant, which is about 100 yards from the scene of the blaze.