Greenham Common gorseland blaze in heatwave

Caution urged by firefighters in tinderbox-like conditions

Local firefighters have urged the public to take extreme care when disposing of items in tinderbox like conditions on heathland, due to the current heatwave, after battling a blaze on Greenham Common last night (Tues).

One fire engine was called at 8pm from Newbury Fire Station to Greenham Common, where a 10 x 15m area of gorseland was well alight, near the control tower.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze using two hosereels and left the scene after one and a half hours, with the cause recorded as unknown.

Crew manager of the station's Green Watch, Robin Jordan, has warned of the dangers of discarding items such as glass bottles and cigarettes in the heatwave, which could set grass and heathland alight.

Mr Jordan also pointed out the need to ensure barbecues were safely lit, positioned safely and fully extinguished after use, as they come into frequent use in the heatwave.

For more advice online from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) about fire safety in the current heatwave, including the prevention of heathland fires and health and safety at barbecues, and the dangers of jumping in local waterways to cool off visit: www.rbfrs.co.uk/.

PHOTOGRAPH DUNCAN LAWRY