EASTLEIGH firefighters were called to help tackle a lit bin in Winchester because the city's own station was understaffed, a watch manager has said.
City firefighters put out an intentional fire in public toilets near Abbey Gardens on Tuesday night, but Eastleigh was called to provide the back-up required at any property fire.
Firefighter Simon Kneller said the Eastleigh engine was later called off, but was initially requested due to shortages in Winchester.
The ladies' toilets (above) were filled with smoke when firefighters were called at around 6.45pm.
Mr Kneller added: "Coming from Southampton, who go to that sort of thing all the time, it was unusual to go to it in Winchester."
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