Firefighters from Ventnor have been mobilised to a woodland fire between Ventnor and Whitwell this afternoon (Thursday).
1 appliance is in attendance at Whitwell Road, where smoke can be seen billowing from woodland below.
1 main jet and 2 hose reels are being used to dowse the flames and contain the fire.
Whitwell Road remains open to traffic with ‘give and take’ traffic management in place.
The seat of the fire has started opposite Ventnor Rugby Club at Watcombe Bottom overlooking the sea and properties below.
UPDATE @ 15:20 – Firefighters from Shanklin are now attending a second seat of fire off Castle Close, situated below Whitwell Road.
It’s thought falling debris from above has caused the second, smaller fire.
The incident appears to have been contained with a water carrier from Ventnor brought in to keep a constant supply of water to the pumps.
UPDATE @ 16:30 – A total of 2 fire appliances and 1 water carrier remain on scene this afternoon as they bring the fire under control.
Trees can be seen scorched and burnt from below.
One resident has told Island Echo how quick the first pump arrived at Watcombe Bottom to start tackling the fire.
UPDATE @ 17:45 – Shanklin’s appliance has now returned to station leaving Ventnor to dampen down any hot spots.
With temperatures soaring the likely hood of woodland and gorse fires are at their highest.
UPDATE @ 19:30 – Firefighters from Ventnor have now stood down bringing the incident to a close.
Yesterday, dozens of firefighters tacked a large bush fire near to the Needles Landmark Attraction in Alum Bay which was caused by a discarded disposable BBQ.
The cause of today’s fire has not yet been confirmed but residents are urged to be extra careful when out in the countryside.
Good work lads on the hottest day of the year must have been unbearable in all that gear
Well done in keeping this fire under control. Yes, must have been hell working in the heat with all your gear on.