Good Energy, the renewable electricity supplier and service provider, has today opened the gates to ‘Sunshine Place’ at the model village.

The B Corp-certified energy company has equipped Sunshine Place, the newest neighbourhood in Southsea Model Village, with handmade miniature heat pumps and solar panels, showcasing the huge range of UK homes that can be made more efficient with renewable technology. There are 12 new homes outfitted with solar panels and heat pumps, as well as eight retrofitted existing homes and businesses.

The two-week installation, open to the public between 12 - 26 April, hopes to inspire visitors and drive action from politicians to recognise the role small green energy generators can have on the country’s clean power goals.

Good Energy has also written to MPs close to the issue of the clean energy transition, calling on them to revisit the now-defunct Sunshine Bill, which would have mandated solar as standard on all new homes. The letters, which feature an attention-grabbing pop-up house, also advocate for the removal of green levies from electricity bills and moving them into general taxation, which would make heating a home with a heat pump more cost-efficient while lowering energy bills for everyone.

Lastly Good Energy has called for more funding to be made available for lower income households for solar and heat pumps, to make access to clean technologies fairer.

Dotted around the Sunshine Place site are handmade scale models of the nation’s most vocal renewable champions and sceptics, including Stephen Morgan, Labour MP for Portsmouth South, a proponent of extra energy bill support for Portsmouth families.

Green champions Ed Miliband, Labour Secretary of State for Energy, Max Wilkinson, Lib Dem MP for Cheltenham and the original member to raise the Sunshine Bill in Parliament also feature, while vocal detractor of green energy Nigel Farage, Reform MP for Clacton, has his own model.

A spokesperson for Good Energy said: “Domestic gas boilers account for 17 per cent of all UK carbon emissions, but by retrofitting the model village with tiny heat pumps and solar panels, Good Energy hopes to playfully champion the accessibility and versatility of renewable energy solutions – and allay concerns about aesthetics.

“Strategically placed placards around the model village debunk misconceptions and outline the grants and subsidies currently available as well as challenge government decisions on ensuring UK homes are prepared for a fully renewable future.”

Nigel Pocklington, CEO at Good Energy, said: “Small changes can have a big impact. Sunshine Place demonstrates what a greener, cleaner future could look like in the UK. As a nation, we need rapid adoption of sustainable energy solutions, but we also know that making that leap is a big decision for consumers, especially considering ever-increasing energy bills.

“Helping people understand their options, the grants available, the money they can save and their potential contribution to the nationwide push towards net zero is what has guided this feel-good campaign and installation."

Mark Wilson and Dean Wilson, owners of Southsea Model Village said, “We’re delighted to be partnering with Good Energy on the construction of Sunshine Place. To be able to support such an important message and use the village to showcase what a sustainably powered future could look like is a great honour.”

Featured are HMS Warrior, RRS Discovery, HMS Hercules, STS Pogoria, HMS Calliope, HMS Victory and French vessel Le Jaureguiberry.

You can see all the vessels in our gallery below.

MORE RETRO: 15 rare photos of Portsmouth parades from the past, 9 great old images of the Royal Pier Hotel in Southsea

Featured are HMS Warrior, RRS Discovery, HMS Hercules, STS Pogoria, HMS Calliope, HMS Victory and French vessel Le Jaureguiberry.

You can see all the vessels in our gallery below.

MORE RETRO: 15 rare photos of Portsmouth parades from the past, 9 great old images of the Royal Pier Hotel in Southsea

There are some great historic scenes in this selection that include the walking wounded in Goldsmith Avenue in 1914, VJ Day street party in Romsey Avenue in 1945, tram lines being laid in Twyford Avenue, railway track being laid in Goldsmith Avenue, Fratton in 1909 and a 1945 VE Day party in Second Avenue, Cosham.

MORE RETRO: 13 fascinating photos capture what life was like in Portsmouth 100 years ago, 18 pre-war memories of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas

See all our pictures in our gallery below.

There are some great historic scenes in this selection that include the walking wounded in Goldsmith Avenue in 1914, VJ Day street party in Romsey Avenue in 1945, tram lines being laid in Twyford Avenue, railway track being laid in Goldsmith Avenue, Fratton in 1909 and a 1945 VE Day party in Second Avenue, Cosham.

MORE RETRO: 13 fascinating photos capture what life was like in Portsmouth 100 years ago, 18 pre-war memories of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas

See all our pictures in our gallery below.

There are some great historic scenes in this selection that include the walking wounded in Goldsmith Avenue in 1914, VJ Day street party in Romsey Avenue in 1945, tram lines being laid in Twyford Avenue, railway track being laid in Goldsmith Avenue, Fratton in 1909 and a 1945 VE Day party in Second Avenue, Cosham.

MORE RETRO: 13 fascinating photos capture what life was like in Portsmouth 100 years ago, 18 pre-war memories of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas

See all our pictures in our gallery below.

There are some great historic scenes in this selection that include the walking wounded in Goldsmith Avenue in 1914, VJ Day street party in Romsey Avenue in 1945, tram lines being laid in Twyford Avenue, railway track being laid in Goldsmith Avenue, Fratton in 1909 and a 1945 VE Day party in Second Avenue, Cosham.

MORE RETRO: 13 fascinating photos capture what life was like in Portsmouth 100 years ago, 18 pre-war memories of Portsmouth and the surrounding areas

See all our pictures in our gallery below.

Now a police hunt is on for a suspect with a black backpack who was wearing a grey jumper during the incident shortly after 9.30am on Thursday (10 April).

The man was seen in bushes at the junction of Dean Lane, Lanham Lane and Salters Lane in Winchester. “He was challenged and walked away in the direction of Lanham Lane. Nobody was injured,” a police spokesperson said.

“Police investigating this incident would like to hear from anyone who was in the area between 9.30am and 10am on Thursday (10 April) and saw any suspicious behaviour or a man matching the following description.”

The man is described as white, aged between 30 and 40-years-old who was about 5ft 8ins tall with a medium build. Police said he was “bald, with some slight hair at the back of his head” and added: “We would like to speak to a man matching this description in connection with our enquiries, as he was seen in the area at the time.

“Were you in the area around the time the incident took place? Do you recognise this description or did you see anything suspicious? Perhaps you were driving through the area and captured the man on dash cam footage?

“Anyone with any information is asked to please contact us on 101 quoting the reference number 44250156170.”

As revealed by The News on Friday, Jack Stilwell, of Green Lanes Farm, Forestside in Rowlands Castle, was jailed for two and a half years at Portsmouth Crown Court. The government said he “refused to play by the laws”, with his business not operating on a “level playing field”.

The 34-year-old, who recently admitted to having “dark thoughts” over struggles with his businesses, was caged after admitting three counts of furnishing false returns of VAT, which he admitted at a previous hearing. The offences took place between 1 November 2021 and 1 June 2022, and on 2 July 2022.

HMRC told this newspaper it carried out a probe into the farming entrepreneur and said his incarceration sends out a signal to others looking to ride roughshod over government laws.

A spokesperson for HMRC said: “Tax fraud is not a victimless crime. The tax we all pay helps to fund the public services we rely on. The majority pay the tax that is due, but a determined minority refuse to play by the rules.

“We are determined to create a level playing field to allow honest businesses to thrive and we encourage anyone with information about tax fraud or money laundering to report it online.”

Stilwell’s first offence included 20 false VAT statements on behalf of Roundstone Beef Ltd, totalling a whopping £1,278,277.13. The second conviction involved a single false VAT statement submitted on 2 July, 2022, for Greenwell Farms Ltd in which the defendant claimed £37,621.00.

The third charge related to eight false statements submitted on behalf of Greenwell Holdings Ltd, amounting to £568,345.66.

Stilwell’s fall from grace comes after the farming prodigy set up his own beef farming business using money from the public - via an industry-first crowdfunding campaign. In his final year of study at Harper Adams University in 2015 when he was just 23 he set up a crowdfunder to raise £4,000 to buy beef cattle and rent land.

It was a campaign that “caught the attention of the agricultural press and farmers across the world”, the university proudly declared on its website. “As a result, Jack was contacted by a new farm owner in the US who donated the full £4,000 and another in West Sussex who offered 600 acres of land as part of a share-farming project,” the university said.

“Since then, Jack’s business has grown to include over 200 Hereford and Aberdeen-Angus cattle, split across a number of sites. At the end of 2015, he was named Young Farmer of the Year at the Food and Farming Industry Awards. With his new company, Rural Media Solutions, Jack is working with other farmers and rural businesses to show them how social media and crowdfunding can improve their prospects.”

More recently Stilwell opened up on his own mental health struggles and turned to the public again for cash as he set about raising money for The Farm Safety Foundation, a charity set up by NFU Mutual to address attitudes to farm safety and poor mental health for young farmers under 40.

Writing on the Just Giving page, Stilwell confessed he was “struggling in myself for a long while and lost my way”. He gave his last update in February about his bid to run 500 miles in a year for the charity - when he had already pleaded guilty to VAT fraud and was awaiting sentence.

Stilwell added on the fundraising page: “As a farmer and business owner, I know the stresses and strains that starting and running an agricultural business can have on your body and mind.

“This can affect other areas of your life and relationships. Sometimes, you just feel on your own and your thoughts can get as dark as they come. If you, or someone you care for gets to that place, it’s really important to know that there is always someone there to help.”

Stilwell, who appeared on the BBC’s Countryfile program in 2016 and 2017, will be eligible for release on licence half way through his two and a half year sentence.

A female pedestrian in her 40s “suffered a serious and potentially life-threatening head injury” when she was struck by a silver Vauxhall Corsa in Torrington Road around 7.10am.

Police said she remains in a critical condition in hospital. A spokesperson said: “A woman in her 40s suffered a serious and potentially life-threatening head injury.

“She was taken to Southampton General Hospital where she remains at this time. Anyone who witnessed this incident, or has any information, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44250162102.”

You can also submit information online here: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Applicant Kevin Eades, of Huhtamaki UK Ltd in Grange Road, applied to Gosport Borough Council for retrospective planning permission for the warehouse it had started to build.

Permission was granted for the new warehouse, including a link tunnel to the main building to be used as storage only with no manufacturing allowed in the new building.

The decision report said the building is significantly screened from public view from Rowner Road and from Grange Road.

It said the closest homes are separated by a large part of the site and public highway. While other homes are screened from the proposed building by the existing factory, and storage building. Therefore, the new building would have no detrimental impact on neighbours in terms of loss of light, outlook, or privacy.

The employment site produces packaging for hot and cold food including products such as hot boxes, pillow packs, clamshells, trays with film, pizza boxes, ready meals, baking trays and cups.

The food and drink packaging manufacturer has two sites in Gosport, Rowner Road and the Grange site at Tichborne Way, according to its website.

The PR3 summer weekend service from the park and ride station to Clarence Pier will run from June 7 to August 31. This slightly earlier-than-usual start date will mean the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters can utilise the service to enjoy the National Pride event held on Southsea Common on June 7.

Cllr Peter Candlish, cabinet member for transport, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to revive this popular weekend service to Southsea seafront for 2025. It gives us great pleasure to open up the park and ride experience to a wider range of visitors this summer."

The PR3 service will be run by FirstBus with buses leaving every 30 minutes at weekends. The first bus departs at 9.35am, and the last bus returns from Clarence Pier to the park and ride site at 7.24pm. Additionally, there will be a special service operating every 10 minutes on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27 for Portsmouth’s International Kite festival.

James Eustace, commercial director, First Bus South, said: "It’s fantastic to be providing the PR3 park & ride service again for the summer, making it easier than ever for visitors and locals to travel directly to Southsea. It’s a stress-free, convenient, and perfect way to explore - leave the car behind and enjoy the ride."

This year, the route has changed to accommodate the road closure along Clarence Esplanade due to the ongoing Southsea Coastal Scheme improvements.

First Bus Solent were appointed last year to manage the regular PR1 service for the next five years. Described as a “huge hit” by Cllr Candlish, the park and ride site received a vibrant makeover and rebranded buses.

New ticketing options include flexible fares via the First Bus app and day tickets available to purchase from the driver using cash, card or contactless.

For more information about Portsmouth park and ride, visit: parkandride.portsmouth.gov.uk/

RFA Tidespring and Argus will both join HMS Prince of Wales and the UK Carrier Strike Group (UKCSG) on its deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. The 65,000 tonne aircraft carrier will be setting off from Portsmouth on April 22 to Japan, Australia and elsewhere for military drills and diplomatic visits.

The UKCSG will need support capabilities for it to function, which is where RFA Tidespring and Argus come in. The latter, which the longest serving ship in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, will deploy on the operation near its conclusion, as she completes sea trials ahead of being reintegrated into the fleet after two years away.

RFA Tidespring will be deployed throughout the nine-month mission alongside her Norwegian counterpart HNoMS Maud. The 39,000-tonne ship previously worked alongside HMS Prince of Wales during Exercise Strike Warrior near Scotland in October last year. She carried out replenishment at sea trials and other operations.

Commodore Sam Shattock, Head of the RFA, said: “The RFA has a proud history of supporting and sustaining the Royal Navy and international partners on operations all over the world. The RFA will play its part during the Carrier Strike Group deployment to sustain the UK’s expeditionary maritime and security capabilities in key strategic regions; reinforcing our nation’s presence and support to international partners. I wish the supporting RFA ships and people all the best for the deployment and look forward to welcoming them home at the end of the deployment.”

The Royal Navy fleet rely on the RFA during major deployments, with the vessels delivering vital fuel, ammunition, equipment and water resources, as well as engineering support and other capabilities. They allow ships to be at sea and carrying out missions for longer without being docked. During the mission, the vessels and aircraft are expected to use 45,000 cubic metres - or 45m litres - of fuel. Participating warships are expected to sail more than 33,000 miles.

Fully-laden tankers carry 19 million litres of fuel for ships and aircraft – that’s more than enough to fill seven Olympic-sized swimming pools. Alongside stores for over one million litres of fresh water, they can carry eight shipping containers of spare parts, disaster relief kit and food. The flight deck is also large enough to house Merlin and Wildcat helicopters. These aircraft support front-line operations with submarine-hunting, targeting drug smuggling and providing aid during natural disasters.

The regular crew of 60 sailors on RFA Tidespring will swell to more than 100. Shipmate Adam Torap, a communications rating, will be tasked with conducting visual and radio signalling from the bridge and processing classified traffic in and out of the ship’s main communications office.

He said: “Doing a Thursday War – when they throw everything at the ship and ship’s company to test us – as part of Operational Sea Training was a highlight of my time in service. Now we’re about to travel the world as part of Carrier Strike Group 25.”

Third Officer Matthew Goodman, responsible for systems and mechanical engineering, will be dealing with all things electrical, including high voltage supplies and electronics associated with mechanical engineering. He said: “Without engineers, the ship wouldn’t function. It is an engineering requirement of all ranks to the keep the ship fully operational.”

A 21-year-old man has been charged and remanded into police custody following a robbery at a Best One store in Southampton.

At approximately 11pm on Friday (April 11) a man entered the store on Lodge Road.

He assaulted a member of staff with a spanner, as well as strangling him, before leaving with more than £100 in cash.

The victim sustained injuries to his head and he was taken to hospital for treatment but has since returned home.

John Leonard of Mapleridge Lane in Bristol was arrested a short time later by officers in London Road and he has now been charged with robbery and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He has been remanded into custody and is due to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court today (Monday, April 14).

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.

The police received reports that at approximately 5.00pm on Saturday, April 5, a fight occurred involving two men outside of The Denmead Queen Wetherspoon pub on Queens Parade, Waterlooville.

A man in his 30s sustained a head injury to his head and was treated by the ambulance service at the scene.

The police are looking to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw what happened, or anyone who may be able to provide information that could assist the investigation.

You can report information to the police by calling 101, quoting incident number 44250148819.

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.

St Vincent College was transformed into a world of comics, cosplay, and all things geeky.

Fans were able to meet their favourite artists, browse through unique merchandise, and participate in engaging panels and workshops.

The epic gathering of like-minded individuals had something for everyone and featured a host of stars including Peter Davidson, Janet Fielding, Chris Barrie, Madeline Smith, Caroline Munro, Pam Rose, Brian Wheeler and Tony McCarthy.

See pictures from the day below

St Vincent College was transformed into a world of comics, cosplay, and all things geeky.

Fans were able to meet their favourite artists, browse through unique merchandise, and participate in engaging panels and workshops.

The epic gathering of like-minded individuals had something for everyone and featured a host of stars including Peter Davidson, Janet Fielding, Chris Barrie, Madeline Smith, Caroline Munro, Pam Rose, Brian Wheeler and Tony McCarthy.

See pictures from the day below

St Vincent College was transformed into a world of comics, cosplay, and all things geeky.

Fans were able to meet their favourite artists, browse through unique merchandise, and participate in engaging panels and workshops.

The epic gathering of like-minded individuals had something for everyone and featured a host of stars including Peter Davidson, Janet Fielding, Chris Barrie, Madeline Smith, Caroline Munro, Pam Rose, Brian Wheeler and Tony McCarthy.

See pictures from the day below

An investigation in The Sunday Times revealed that operations on RFA Proteus are stepping up up after underwater sensors - believed to be used by Russia - were discovered. These devices were intended to spy on the UK’s four Vanguard-class nuclear submarines, the national title reports.

One of these vessels is continually deployed as part of the British continuous at-sea deterrent. Senior naval officers were deployed to RFA Proteus, a Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance vessel which will be used for protecting undersea cables and other infrastructure - while also being capable of acting as a mothership for drones and other un-crewed systems.

The Times reported that crews prepared remotely operated vehicles which were lowed into the sea bed. Roughly two dozen sailors from the Royal Navy’s diving and mine-hunting squadrons were on board, who are experts in searching for, recovering, and destroying underwater enemy munitions.

The national publication said: “They are here for the first time and will become an integral part of the ship’s operations, because Britain’s critical undersea infrastructure is under unprecedented threat from a long-standing nemesis: Russia.” Royal Navy vessels have been monitoring Moscow vessels for much of this year, with HMS Somerset being tasked with these operations for more than 100 days.

Putin’s spy ship Yantar was spotted sailing around the English Channel for much of January. HMS Somerset and Portsmouth-based HMS Tyne were deployed in response.

Defence secretary John Healey previously told the House of Commons that Russia was “the most pressing and immediate threat”, but also said to MPs that Moscow was “dangerous but fundamentally weak”. Over the past 15 months, at least 11 internet cables in the Baltic Sea have been damaged. Some ships were dragging their anchors across the sea bed.

RFA Proteus is currently the only navy surface vessel capable of dealing with threats at the depths of the ocean which can drop thousands of metres - compared to the nearby waters encircling Britain which are seldom deeper than 300m. Roughly 30 civilian sailors from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary will crew RFA Proteus, who will work alongside the specialist naval teams.

Further training on the ship allowed sailors to operate the SeaCat: a cutting-edge 3m-long torpedo-shaped autonomous vehicle which is equipped with a high-resulting camera and advanced sonar systems on its wings. It can be run for 24 hours at depths of 300m to hunt mines and other underwater devices. Sailors also prepared the Gavia, an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that can plunge down to 1,000m deep. Other vessels were also trialed.

During a tour of the vessel and HMNB Portsmouth in January, armed forces minister Luke Pollard said: “Proteus’ capabilities are incredible, and they add to an already formidable set of capabilities across our military to defend our infrastructure. Those nations that are thinking about interfering with our critical national infrastructure should be in no doubt that we will use our formidable military assets to defend our national security. Proteus’ capabilities are cutting-edge, world leading and it will be a part of defending our national security in the future, especially undersea cables.”

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard will be hosting live music and other activities in its Historic Quarter on May 10. Visitors are promised to be transported back to 1945 with live music, dance performances, historic vessels, costumed interpreters and other family fun on display.

This is all to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, which marks the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany in the Second World War. All the events will take place in Boathouse 4 and 5 between 10am and 4pm.

Visitors are encouraged to jump on the dance floor in Boathouse 5, as Portsmouth Lindy Hop will lead an energetic swing dance inspired by music of the time. Uplifting harmonies will be performed by The Charlalas - a 1940s singing trio - in Boathouse 4.

Fascinating naval history will also be on display at the Boathouse 4 pontoons, where people can get up close and personal with several military vessels that operated over the decades. Motor Gun Boat 81 (1942) and High-Speed Launch 102 (1936) - both of which played a crucial role in the Second World War - will be among them.

The public can get their hands on vintage games and sample delicious food inspired from the era. Visitors can access all the entertainment for free, included in a Historic Quarter Pass.

A road closure has been in place in both directions on the A27 in both directions between Emsworth and Chichester this morning (April 14) following an oil spill.

One lane has reopened on the westbound carriageway but the eastbound carriageway remains closed.

The AA has also confirmed that there is a crash on the A27 at the Chichester bypass westbound. As a result, the road is partially blocked and there is significant traffic building.

The AA says: “Partially blocked and slow traffic due to crash on A27 Chichester By-pass Westbound at A285 Portfield Way.”

For more information about the crash, click here.

HMS Somerset returned to its home port last week after spending more than 100 days of security operations. A total of six missions were carried out by the Type 23 frigate and other fleet assets.

Her work began in December when crews were recalled on Christmas Day to shadow Russian warships for 500 miles in the North Sea and the English Channel. Commander Joel Roberts, Commanding Officer of the Duke-class vessel, said: “After many months away, it is with immense pride and joy that I welcome our return home from a successful deployment.

“The ship’s company has demonstrated unwavering commitment and professionalism in carrying out vital operations throughout UK sensitive waters and Northern Europe, from shadowing Russian naval activity to engaging with our allies and partners during exercises and operations. Our presence has made a real and tangible difference in delivering UK national security objectives and reinforcing NATO’s mission of collective security, unity, and deterrence.

“The work we have done, often in challenging conditions, has directly contributed to regional stability and reinforced the strength of our alliances. I want to be clear in acknowledging that none of this would have been possible without the extraordinary support of our families, friends and loved ones at home.

“Your patience, strength, and encouragement have been the backbone of our resilience throughout this deployment, and to all of them I offer my heartfelt thanks. It has been an honour to lead such a dedicated and professional team, and I have a deep pride in each member of the ship’s company for their service.

“We return home stronger, closer, and with a deep sense of accomplishment for the role we’ve played in defending our shared values and protecting UK interests. As we return to our home port, it’s now time to reunite with loved ones and all those whom have supported us, before enjoying some well-earned leave.”

The frigate carried out a gun salute last week during her return to HMNB Devonport. Sailors had to keep their beady eyes on various corvettes, landing, cargo and support ships, as well as Vladimir Putin’s spy ship Yantar. HMS Somerset also made several port visits to Den Helder in the Netherlands, Bergen and Stavanger in Norway, Zeebrugge in Belgium and Hamburg in Germany - where she opened the ship to more than 1,000 people.

Other visits at home included Clyde Naval Base, North Shields and Aberdeen. The ship’s Merlin helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron spent 100 hours on sorties, gathering vital information on Russian ships but also tracking and simulating attacks on allied submarines during two weeks in the Norwegian Fjords on Exercise Arctic Dolphin. Royal Navy Submariners undertook the punishing Submarine Command Course so they could become front-line commanders.

A road closure was put in place in both directions between the A259 near Emsworth and the A259 near Chichester.

This comes after police received reports at 4.41am that a detached trailer was causing an obstruction on the A27 near Emsworth, and had spilled cooking oil into the road.

The full closure has been in place all morning but National Highways South has now confirmed that one lane on the A27 westbound has reopened.

The A27 remains closed eastbound between the A259 at Emsworth and the A259 at Chichester while a specialist clean-up is conducted.

For more information about the incident, click here.

Firefighters raced to a gorse fire on Browndown Common, Gosport, yesterday evening (April 13) just before 7pm after receiving multiple 999 calls.

Crews from Gosport, Fareham, Cosham, Eastleigh and Hightown attended the scene and they used hose reels and beaters to bring the flames under control.

Residents were advised to avoid the area to allow emergency vehicles clear access.

At approximately 9pm, firefighters identified two separate areas of gorse which were alight. The first area measured approximately 80 by 30 metres, and the second around 100 by 30 metres.

The firefighters continued to battle the blaze by using two hose reel jets, two main jets, four beaters, and a Land Rover to tackle the flames.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service issued an update just after 10pm last night to confirm the fire had been extinguished and that an inspection would take place today (April 14).

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, click here.

Pilots operating F-35B Lightning aircraft will aim to declare full operating capability while working alongside HMS Prince of Wales. They will join the 65,000 tonne aircraft carrier when she sets off for the Indo-Pacific region next Tuesday (April 22).

The UK Carrier Strike Group (UKCSG) - as part of Operation Highmast - will see 809 Naval Air Squadron and 617 Squadron take charge of the fighter jets. One of the central aims of the deployment is to declare full operating capability for the UK Lightning Force, where the aircraft and associated support and engineering will work to its full potential and deploy two squadrons.

Lightning Air Wing Commander, Group Captain John Butcher, is responsible for force generation and the safety of the force’s personnel during operations. He said: “Operation Highmast signifies a major milestone for the Lightning Programme. It will realise full operating capability for F-35 in the UK with the ability to deploy two squadrons to the maritime operating base.

“We’re international by design on Operation Highmast and will be operating with key allies and partners, with a key focus on NATO as we operate in Europe and having a real role to play in the Indo-Pacific with key allies and partners.”

He added: “This is an important milestone which culminates after years of efforts and it will be the realisation of us to deploy two squadrons to different locations in the world at land or sea and to deliver air effect. Fifth generation air power is important for us to be able to control the air in a contested environment and by having two squadrons capable of delivering this it provides more options.”

It will be the first operational deployment for 809 Naval Air Squadron after it was reformed in 2023 after a three decade absence. Pilots from both squadrons will undergo extensive training and exercises with international allies.

Commander Nick Smith, Officer Commanding of 809 Naval Air Squadron, said: “809 Naval Air Squadron work very closely as part of the UK combat air force, working really for the RAF but also we’re a key link to the Royal Navy particular when it comes to delivering air power at sea. Working alongside our partner squadron 617, we deliver front-line fifth generation capability when and where required by the UK government.

“At a time when the world is as unsettled as it is right now it’s hugely important that we get out and exercise with our allies and F-35 partners to prove the capability that we have in UK Defence. Deploying to the Indo-Pacific region will obviously give us the opportunity to exercise alongside our allies particularly the Australians and Japanese forces who operate F-35 alongside us.

“The programme is global by design and gives us an excellent opportunity to work with each other very closely to understand and develop our tactics, techniques and procedures to make sure we’re as lethal and deployable as possible.”

The squadrons are made up 50 per cent RAF and 50 per cent Royal Navy, with 617 Squadron led by the first Royal Marine to have command of a UK fighter squadron. Lieutenant Colonel Mike Carty Royal Marines, Officer Commanding of 617, said: “This for myself is an incredible privilege and honour to take the reins as Officer Commanding 617 Squadron.

“It’s also unique for UK Defence but what it shows is the joint nature of the squadron and how we integrate between the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. Operation Highmast is an incredibly important deployment. For 617 Squadron is gives us the ability to hone our skills across a variety of mission sets and allows us to develop operationally alongside allies and partners.”

The major A road remains closed in both directions between the A259 near Emsworth and the A259 near Chichester following a significant oil spillage.

An incident involving a van and trailer which crossed from one carriageway to the other resulted in the trailer, which contained cooking oil, to roll over causing a the spill.

The closure has been in place since earlier this morning and there is currently no information on when the road may reopen.

The National Highways South X page said: “The #A27 remains closed in both directions between A259 near #Emsworth and A259 near #Chichester#Hampshire for the recovery of an overturned trailer and clear up of the spillage of cooking oil.”

A diversion route through Emsworth and Fishbourne is in place but there is heavy traffic in this area.

For more information and live updates, click here.

The major A road is closed both ways between the A259 near Emsworth and the A259 near Chichester, causing mayhem for commuters this morning (April 14).

The road closure is due to an incident involving a van and trailer which crossed from one carriageway to the other.

As a result, the trailer, which contained cooking oil, rolled over causing a significant oil spillage across the road.

National Highways South wrote on its website: “This is due to a incident involving a van and trailer which has crossed from one carriageway to the other.

“The trailer contained cooking oil which has been spilt on to the road and will require specialist clean-up.”

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary are at the scene of the incident and a diversion route through Fishbourne has been put in place.

For more information about the incident, click here.

Police attended the incident which happened just before 12.30pm - and caused “minor injuries” to those involved.

A force spokesperson said: “We were called at 12.26pm to a report of a collision on Portsdown Hill between two cars. Minor injuries have been reported.”

Contact police on 101 with information.

A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply and handling stolen goods following the raid at Apple Green Close.

Officers prevented a man from escaping the scene at around 12.25pm on 10 April after executing a drugs warrant.

A police spokesperson said “officers stopped a man” and carried out a search at the address before adding: “Police seized a quantity of suspected Class A drugs during this search.

“Following a further search at a local address, officers located two E-bikes which are suspected to have been stolen. He has been bailed until 10 July while enquiries continue.”

A man wearing dark jogging bottoms and a raincoat with the hood up deployed the usual method to assist his robbery of Welcome Stores on Fair Oak Road, Fair Oak, on Saturday at 8.45pm.

Police said the white male with a slim build, who was about 5ft 8in tall, raided the till after making the bizarre threat. “A man entered Welcome Stores and threatened staff with a lump of concrete,” the force said.

“He stole approximately £300 from the till and then left. Two members of the public tried to intervene and chased the suspect.

“We would like to speak to anyone who can identify this man, or the two members of the public who tried to help. Anyone with information or relevant CCTV or dash cam footage should call 101 quoting reference 44250160549.”

A huge emergency service response of 14 crews rushed to the scene on the train bridge near Hythe fire station in New Road on Friday at 10.23pm.

However, it was discovered the “body” was in fact a mannequin. Police have taken a dim view of the prank and are now hunting for those responsible.

A police statement said: “Police were called at about 10.23pm on Friday 11 April, following reports of a body of a man being discovered on the train bridge near Hythe fire station on New Road.

“When officers attended, it became clear that this was in fact a mannequin hanging from the bridge which someone had tied the hands of and put a bag over its head.

“This caused a lot of distress to members of the public who saw this, due to how life like the mannequin was.

“It also meant that 14 emergency services personnel were needlessly called to the scene from the police, ambulance and fire services. Incidents such as this could prevent the services helping members of the public who really need it.

“We urge anyone with information about who may have staged this to come forward. You can call 101 quoting reference 44250159252 or report online at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/.”

Click here to find out about The News’ emails and get our headlines delivered to your inbox

A van and car were left badly damaged with debris strewn across The Strand by Southwood Road on Saturday just before 9pm. One local said the van driver was seen sprinting off from the scene.

Residents heard a “loud crash” on the notorious stretch, which has been likened to Brands Hatch race track because of the volume of speeding drivers.

Police are investigating as they confirmed to The News there had been a two vehicle crash in The Strand that happened around 8.50pm. “Minor injuries were reported,” a spokesperson added.

A social media post titled “another smash on Hayling’s favourite race track” drew a response from locals. One witness said the crash was “pretty bad” with the road “only just passable”, while another said they heard a “loud crash and then car horns from Fishery Creek”.

Others said they saw the van driver running off after what “must have been a high speed (crash)” due to the “state of the car”. A witness said: “Hope by the condition of the car that no one was seriously hurt or worse. Gave me shivers seeing it.”

Residents were not shocked by the latest incident on the infamous stretch. One person wrote: “Not surprised. Southwood Road is like Brands Hatch, especially early in the evening.”

Another posted: “Honestly Southwood Road is a nightmare for speeding. It's not just the young either, plenty of older men and women seem to think 50mph plus is the speed limit. For me, there should be raised sections all the way along there, same as Selsmore Road. All local people as well.”

Click here to find out about The News’ emails and get our headlines delivered to your inbox

A huge emergency service response of around 10 police vehicles, five ambulances and an air ambulance rushed to the scene by Lakeside, close to the Village Hotel, shortly before 3pm, as reported.

Emergency vehicles were seen beneath the flyover in Lakeside Drive before medics were seen treating two people on the dirt track. They were then placed on stretchers and carried a short distance before being placed in ambulances and taken to hospital.

Earlier today police provided details of the incident, with a spokesperson telling The News: “At 2.48pm yesterday (12 April) police were called to a service dirt road that runs alongside the M275, following a report of a collision between two off-road motorbikes.

“Two men in their 30s were taken to hospital with serious but not life threatening injuries.”

A person who saw the aftermath of the crash said: “There were two scrambler type motorbikes on the pathway that runs alongside the water on the other side of Mountbatten footpath. They probably shouldn’t be riding along that path, and looks like they had an accident. Hope they’re ok.”

Click here to find out about The News’ emails and get our headlines delivered to your inbox

The victim, aged in her 30s, was approached by a man near to the Smart Stop on Fratton Road, Fratton, who demanded she hand over her mobile phone just after 4pm on Sunday 16 February. But despite being attacked, the brave woman managed to fight off the menace.

“The man reportedly grabbed the woman, but she fought him off and he ran away towards Fratton train station. The woman sustained a minor injury to her finger during the incident,” police said.

“Following an earlier appeal for information, we are now issuing an image of a man we would like to speak to in relation to this matter. Do you recognise him or his clothing?”

Police said he is described as white, aged in his late 30s to early 40s who was about 5ft 7in with fair, strawberry blonde hair and had a “very skinny build” and “walks with a slight hunch”.

“If you have any information which could help us with our enquiries, or were driving in the area at the time and have any dash-cam footage which would assist us, please report this to us,” police added.

To report information call 101 quoting reference number 44250072107 or go online to https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Click here to find out about The News’ emails and get our headlines delivered to your inbox

A huge emergency service response of around 10 police vehicles, five ambulances and an air ambulance rushed to the scene by Lakeside, close to the Village Hotel, shortly before 3pm, as reported.

Emergency vehicles were seen beneath the flyover in Lakeside Drive before medics were seen treating two people on the dirt track. They were then placed on stretchers and carried a short distance before being placed in ambulances and taken to hospital.

Now police have provided details of the incident, with a spokesperson telling The News: “At 2.48pm yesterday (12 April) police were called to a service dirt road that runs alongside the M275, following a report of a collision between two off-road motorbikes.

“Two men in their 30s were taken to hospital with serious but not life threatening injuries.”

A person who saw the aftermath of the crash said: “There were two scrambler type motorbikes on the pathway that runs alongside the water on the other side of Mountbatten footpath. They probably shouldn’t be riding along that path, and looks like they had an accident. Hope they’re ok.”

Another witness said: “Motorbikes ride alongside that footpath and under the bridge so they could have had an accident.

“There were two people (injured). There were over 10 police cars and about five ambulances with an air ambulance also landing.”

Another person said the crash involved motorcyclists, which looked “serious”.

Click here to find out about The News’ emails and get our headlines delivered to your inbox

Tony Moulson, 65, has worked as a refuse collector for 45 years with Portsmouth City Council, and he is about to leave to take retirement.

The 65-year-old has seen some huge changes across the industry as well as the landscapes of Portsmouth during his time and he will be leaving his mark on his team as he begins his retirement.

His team have celebrated his work over the years by contributing to his leaving present which is a guided tour of the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio tour.

Richard Tebbutt, business manager, said: ‘There are guys here that have done 20 years, we have got a few that are in their 70s and I think that is amazing.

‘There is job security here. I think that is what the guys like and there is a big sense of camaraderie, there is a work force of 90 here.’

Tony has worked with various teams during his time with Biffa, and said that the main attraction to the job originally was the flexibility with hours and that when he had a young family it meant that he could finish work when he completed his rounds making it easier at home.

Tony said: ‘There has been a slight change since I started here. I started in September 1977 on a temporary contract and I have been here ever since. Lorries have got bigger and crews have got smaller.

‘There are still areas that I have never been down. The problem was for 35 years I just did north of the city so anything south of Hilsea didn’t exist. They had it easy down there, they didn’t have the hills.

‘There have been so many good memories over the years. I can remember walking down when they brought the Mary Rose up, so yes it has been good.’

Chris Smith, the ex-business manager of the site, said: ‘They do about 15,000 steps a day and he has probably covered the equivalent of every house in Portsmouth.

‘He has always been massively reliable, he has always been a great worker and someone like Tony never lets us down. He is a shining example for the younger generation of what hard work looks like and how to do the job. It is a brilliant service over the years.’

Richard worked out that with the average number of steps that Tony has taken per round, during his career he has walked the equivalent of circling the world three times.

Tony said that he wants to take up swimming when it gets warmer and that he will also be going for walks and spending time with his wife.

David Emmett, head of waste services, said: ‘It is amazing that he has been able to put in such a service for the city for such a long time. It is absolutely amazing.

‘It is a well deserved time to put his feet up after all of that walking.’