A wildfire has broken out at the Longmoor Ranges near Bordon – with a huge plume of smoke visible from as far away as Petersfield and Alton.

Firefighters are currently tackling a large blaze which broke out shortly before 2pm and has already engulfed more than 12 hectares of forest and scrubland.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has advised nearby residents to avoid the area and keep windows and doors shut.

Sixteen fire crews are currently in attendance, from both Hampshire and Surrey, with four hose reel jets and four Land Rovers also being used.

It comes just a week after the MOD announced a section of Longmoor Ranges would be closed "until further notice" "to assist a partner nation".

According to the MOD website, firing was due to take place from 9am to 4pm today (Friday), and several nearby residents have reported hearing a loud bang at around the time the fire took hold.

The cause of the wildfire is currently unknown.

The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton
The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton (Daryl Edwards)
The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton
The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton (Daryl Edwards)
The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton
The Longmoor Ranges fire can be seen from as far away as Petersfield and Alton (Daryl Edwards)