Investigators assessing whether Holt Heath wildfire is suspicious
A major incident was declared after flames started quickly spreading yesterday morning
Last updated 10th Aug 2025
Dorset Police have told us their officers are working with firefighters to assess whether a wildfire, which was declared a major incident, is suspicious.
Flames began spreading quickly at Holt Heath near Wimborne yesterday morning (Saturday 9th August 2025.)
Crews spent hours bringing flames and smoke under control - and some homes had to be evacuated for a time.
A Dorset Police spokesperson said:
"We received a report at 11.47am on Saturday 9 August 2025 from the fire service of a fire at Holt Heath in the Mannington area.
"Officers attended to assist the fire service with road closures and to help evacuate a small number of people from their properties.
"We are continuing to liaise with the fire service to understand if there are any suspicious circumstances in relation to this incident."
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says crews remain at the scene today (Sunday 10th August 2025).
Crews have also been tackling a large blaze at Newton Heath, near Swanage, which has been burning since last Sunday (3rd August 2025).