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Southampton’s league match against Preston North End, which was due to be played on Wednesday night, was postponed after a main fire broke out near St Mary’s Stadium.
Eighteen fire engines responded to the blaze, which engulfed four commercial sets just feet off the ground. Hampshire and Isle of Wight firefighters pleaded with people nearby to keep windows and doors closed because of the giant plumes of smoke surrounding the scene.
“The resolution was made after consultation with local and emergency government after a main fire broke out the previous day at a construction site near St Mary’s Stadium,” Southampton said in a statement.
“The incident has caused significant disruption in the area, with roads around the stadium still closed as firefighters continue to handle the situation. We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the sadness that fans might feel, I hope they perceive the desire to prioritise the protection of the fans and both clubs.
“The event will be postponed to a new date, to be announced in due course, and all tickets for tonight’s event will be valid for the rescheduled event. “
Accountant Chris Harwood tweeted footage of the chimney filmed from the north of the stadium. Harwood, 25, told the PA news agency: “We might see a big cloud of smoke from our workplace in Ocean Village, Southampton, during lunch, so we walked over to it to find out where it was from. “
Comedian David Baddiel tweeted a photo of the smoke filling the sky, writing: “A very bad chimney near my house in Southampton. I hope everyone is safe.
Southampton are fourth in the standings and aiming for promotion to the Premier League, while Preston are ninth, four points off the play-off places.
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