23/04/2019

Mourne Mountains Fire Treated As Suspicious

Police have confirmed they are treating a major gorse fire in the Mourne Mountains as suspicious.

Over 50 firefighters tackled the blaze, which originated in Donard Forest on the evening of Sunday 21 April and continued throughout the night.

The Northern Ireland Fire And Rescue Service (NIFRS) have now determined that it was started deliberately.

A spokesperson praised the "great work" of firefighters, who dealt with the mile long blaze through challenging conditions with support from specialist officers.

The fire posed a serious threat to people's safety and property and hundreds of people were evacuated from nearby homes and a caravan park.

Police are investigating.



(JG/CM)

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