CCTV cameras capture moment huge heath fire came close to homes
20 homes were evacuated and an area of heathland the size of 23 football pitches has been destroyed
Last updated 25th Apr 2022
An investigation is underway into a large heath fire in Poole which threatened nearby homes.
The blaze on Canford Heath is believed to have been started deliberately, the fire service said.
Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward.
Dorset Police received a report at 6.19pm on Saturday (23 April) of a large heath fire on Canford Heath.
Road closures were put in place and approximately 20 homes in the area of Marshwood Avenue, Culliford Crescent and Pilsdon Drive were evacuated.
There were no reports of any injuries as a result of the fire.
A spokesman for BCP Council said: "The timing of the incident is incredibly upsetting due to our nesting birds, and other species that were using the heathland to welcome new life into the world.
"Volunteers and BCP rangers are continuing to look for emerging reptiles as well as record the deceased.
"A total of 23 dead animals have been logged so far, including sand lizards and smooth snakes, two of the rarest reptiles we are lucky enough to have here in the UK and have spent years cultivating here in Poole.
"The fire exposed a lot of litter which our staff and volunteers from the local community are helping to clear.
"This incident is utterly tragic and most likely could have been totally avoided.
"Although the start of the fire remains unknown, it is a stark reminder of how important it is to be cautious.
"Barbecues are not to be used on our heathlands and reckless behaviour will not be tolerated."