Wildfire on Salisbury Plain

Warning after 'significant fire' creates huge plume of smoke

WILDFIRE: Wilton Fire station among several crews tackling blaze on Salisbury Plain
Author: Mike DraperPublished 8th Jul 2022
Last updated 8th Jul 2022

Around 50 firefighters have been tackling a fire on Salisbury Plain.

Emergency services were called after the blaze broke out yesterday evening (Thursday 7th July) just north of Shrewton.

We've heard repeated warnings about the risk of wildfire, and Wiltshire's also been on high alert for weeks due to the dry weather.

Multiple crews of firefighters, from several fire stations, including a water carrier from Pewsey Fire Station, have been on the scene using beaters and hose reels to extinguish the fire.

At it's height last night the plume smoke was so large it began to affect visibility for traffic on the A303.

Local residents were also warned to keep their windows and doors closed to prevent anyone breathing in the smoke.

The fire was brought under control and successfully put out shortly after 11pm, but fire crews remained at the scene for a short while after.

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