20/04/2009

Fire Crews Battle 'Worst' Heath Fire

A heath blaze, described as one of the worst in years, was yesterday brought under control by more than 50 firefighters.

The fire devastated almost one-third of Talbot Heath in Poole, and fire crews worked for almost three hours to get the fire under control.

The fire broke out at around 4.30pm on Sunday.

Steve Mant, Dorset Fire and Rescue's fire incident commander, said: "It is probably the worst fire on this heath for 17 years.

"The fire caught gorse and produced 20ft flames. The heat was tremendous.

"It started on a high ridge in the centre of the heath, but as soon as it reached the valley the wind caught it and it really gathered speed."

The cause of the heath fire is being investigated.

(JM/BMcC)

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