UPDATED: The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are responding to a fire at Parkhurst Forest in Newport this morning (Tuesday).
An area of undergrowth around 30x20m is alight close to Camp Hill prison.
2 appliances from Newport, 1 from Ryde, the Land Rover 4×4 from Ryde and a water carrier from Freshwater have all been mobilised.
The fire service were alerted at just before 07:50.
UPDATE @ 09:15 – Fire crews have managed to quickly contain and bring the fire under control, however they are likely to be on scene for many hours as they turn over the soil to ensure the fire is completely extinguished.
The Incident Support Unit from East Cowes has arrived on scene to supply more hoses, which are being run out through the forest to the main hydrant. A water dam has also been established.
A representative from the Forestry Commission is on scene and liasing with fire officers this morning. She says the soil is rich in organic material and whilst it isn’t peat, it is similar and flammable.
Justin Harden, Group Manager for Hampshire Fire and Rescue says the cause of the fire is currently unknown. However, he is taking this opportunity to remind Islanders to be extremely careful when discarding lighted materials, glass and lighting BBQs and bonfires.
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service issued a safety warning yesterday about the fire risk during hot weather.
UPDATE @ 10:14 – Fire crews remain on scene at Parkhurst more than 2-and-a-half hours after first rolling out of the station.
Jeff Walls, Senior Officer for IWFRS has taken over as Incident Commander and Newport’s day crew have relieved the wholetime night crew.
The incident is now being scaled back with Newport’s retained appliance returning to station.
Parkhurst Forest remains open to visitors.
