Around 40 firefighters tackle large heath fire near Verwood

People are being told to avoid the area

Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 1st Jul 2024

Over 40 firefighters are currently dealing with a large heath fire near Verwood.

Engines from Dorset and Hampshire were called to Boveridge Heath at 6am and found flames in the undergrowth.

We're told it's in an area which is difficult for crews to access and it's not yet clear how it started.

A spokesperson from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said:

"In addition to our own crews, we have support from Ringwood, Fordingbridge and Eastleigh.

"It looks as though the fire may have been burning for some time before it broke through to become visible, but there’s no identified cause as yet.

"An investigation will start once the fire is under control.

"We are asking local people to avoid the area for safety, as there are lots of vehicle movements on the main access track."

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