AN ARSONIST has torched a car in the staff car park at Winchester prison.

The car, a blue Citroen C1, was left completely burnt out while another was significantly damaged in the blaze - which was started between 10pm and 11pm on Sunday evening.

One source told the Chronicle staff monitoring CCTV did not see the incident and were only alerted when the fire service arrived on the scene.

Police have since confirmed the car was deliberately targeted and are investigating the incident.

As of this morning the scorched remains of the vehicle were still at the car park cordoned off by police tape.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "We’re appealing for witnesses and information after a car was set alight in Winchester. Officers investigating the incident are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious. Were you in the area at around the time of the incident? Did you see anyone acting suspiciously? Perhaps you were driving in the area and have dash-cam footage?

"Anyone with any information that may assist our investigation should call us on 101 or report online quoting reference 44220244337.

"Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/."

A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue service said: "Winchester firefighters were called to a vehicle fire at HMP Winchester at 10.56pm on Sunday evening.

"One car was destroyed, with another car suffering 50 per cent damage in the blaze which was extinguished by firefighters wearing sets of breathing apparatus, using hose reels. Police were informed before crews returned to station at 11.46pm."

HMP Winchester has said it won't be commenting on the incident while investigations are ongoing.