Nature reserve in west Cornwall hit by huge gorse fire that could be seen for miles
The blaze at Bartinney near St Just could be seen from Marazion to Land's End and burned for most of Easter Monday
Last updated 6th Apr 2021
Firefighters from across west Cornwall have spent the best part of a day battling a huge gorse fire.
The blaze at Bartinney could be seen from Marazion to Land's End.
There are fears that a huge chunk of the nature reserve has been destroyed.
Read more: Firefighters from across west Cornwall scrambled to huge gorse fire
A total of five engines, two light support vehicles and a water carrier were fighting the flames, that were being fanned by strong winds.
Crews from St Just, St Ives, Penzance, Helston and Perranporth were scrambled on Easter Monday morning.
Teams remained at the scene until well into the evening.
Posting in one of the local Facebook groups, one witness described an array of animals and birds 'fleeing in terror'.
They added that many other creatures would have "gone to ground and perished".
The Chief Executive of Cornwall Wildlife Trust, which looks after the reserve, has tweeted to thank crews for their efforts.
Pirate FM has asked Cornwall Wildlife Trust for a statement and updates will appear below.
There have been no further updates from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service as to what caused the fire, however it is believed to be out now.
"Thank you @CornwallFRS teams who worked hard in the v windy & cold conditions. Good to attend and check in with crews. Operational plan included firefighters' diverse skills & use of local farm equipment to extinguish the fire. Also thanks to our community who alerted us to the fire".
Kathryn Billing, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service