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.

Hampshire Chronicle:

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."