A HORSE was led to safety after a fire involving a horse box in the New Forest this morning. 

The fire on the A337 in Lyndhurst was reported shortly after 6am on Wednesday morning. 

Hampshire Fire Service said: "The driver and the horse were safely away from the vehicle as crews from Brockenhurst and Redbridge arrived on scene.

Bournemouth Echo: Picture: Hampshire Fire ServicePicture: Hampshire Fire Service (Image: Hampshire Fire Service,)

"A specialist water carrier from Eastleigh Fire Station was also in attendance as firefighters in breathing apparatus used hose reels to stop the fire which destroyed the horsebox.

"Crews liaised with the Highways Agency and local council to ensure the road was made safe and cleaned of oil which had leaked from the vehicle."

The A337 is closed both ways from Furzy Lawn Lane to Brockishill Road. The road has been closed since 6.20am.

Bournemouth Echo:  Picture: Hampshire Fire Service Picture: Hampshire Fire Service (Image: Hampshire Fire Service)

Traffic is affected between Lyndhurst and Cadnam.

Posting on social media earlier today, Redbridge Fire Station said: “Horse box fire on A337 owner and animals all fine but please avoid the area as the road will be closed due to damage caused by the incident.”