Crews tackle woodland fire burning underground

Crews are tackling a large woodland fire in Rainworth that is burning underground.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) said it was called to an area of Strawberry Hill Heath on Monday afternoon and remained at the scene into the night.

Firefighters returned to the site, where the fire was still burning below the surface across 10,000 sqm (108,000 sq ft), on Tuesday, station manager Richard Booth said.

The fire service has warned people to avoid the area while crews continue to tackle the blaze.

NFRS said: "Although it may only appear to be smoke, the fire is still burning underground.

"Firefighters are using specialist equipment from our wildfire units. Please avoid the area while our firefighters deal with this fire.

"These type of fires are difficult to extinguish as they can burn deep underground."

It comes as swathes of the country are experiencing more high temperatures in what is forecast to be the third heatwave this year.

NFRS added: "Please be careful this time is year with BBQ's, cigarettes, glass bottles. Take your rubbish home with you."

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