Firefighters battled flames across rugged moorland terrain as crews worked tirelessly to bring a challenging blaze under control — with even livestock caught in the midst of the drama.
Emergency services were called to an open fire in the Berrynarbor area of North Devon, prompting a multi-station response from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
Firefighters from Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, Braunton and Lynton fire stations attended alongside supporting officers, using pumping appliances, an Argo Cat and water-spraying backpacks to tackle the heathland fire.
A spokesperson for Woolacombe Fire Station said: “This was hard, physical work for crews due to the challenging terrain — steep hills, thick gorse, and deep-rooted vegetation all made access and extinguishing the fire more difficult.”
They added: “Incidents like this require a significant number of personnel to work across the ground, create fire breaks, and fully extinguish hotspots.”
During the incident, crews also encountered livestock at close range. The spokesperson said: “Some of our firefighters even came face-to-face with a rather large bull — a reminder that we are not the only ones out there, and that wildlife and livestock can be directly affected by fires like this.”
The fire was eventually brought under control safely following what the service described as a co-ordinated effort. The spokesperson said: “Thanks to a coordinated effort and strong teamwork, the fire was brought under control safely.”
Fire crews have since urged the public to take extra care in the countryside as warmer and drier conditions develop.
The spokesperson said: “As we move into warmer, drier weather, please take extra care in the countryside. Avoid open flames, dispose of smoking materials responsibly, and report any signs of fire early by calling 999.”
