Fire Near St Mary's Stadium Causes Postponement Of Southampton vs Preston North End

Southampton FC's home Sky Bet Championship game against Preston North End has been postponed due to safety precautions after a fire broke out at a building near to St Mary's Stadium.

Fire crews have been tackling the blaze, which is affecting four industrial units near the stadium mere hours before Southampton were due to host the Lilywhites.

Fortunately no injuries have been reported.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service tweeted an update prior to the postponement, which said people had been advised to avoid the area on Wednesday afternoon and keep windows and doors closed.

Crews are tackling a fire affecting industrial units near St Mary's football stadium.

People in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed

Some roads local to the incident are closed and people are advised to avoid the area to allow movements of emergency vehicles. pic.twitter.com/YTLq5acSux

— Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (@HantsIOW_fire) March 6, 2024

Southampton issued a statement saying: “The decision was made after consultation with the local authorities and emergency services after a major fire broke out in a building next to the St Mary’s Stadium site earlier today.

“The incident has caused significant disruption in the area with road closures around the stadium still in place as fire crews continue to deal with the situation.”

“We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the disappointment fans may feel, we hope they will understand the need to put the safety of supporters and staff of both clubs first.

“The game will be postponed to a new date, which will be announced in due course, and all tickets for tonight’s match will be valid for the rearranged fixture.”

Image Credit: Southampton FC.