More than 150 firefighters tackle blaze at Wareham Forest

Drone Footage: Elaine Betteridge

More than 150 firefighters are tackling a major heath fire at Wareham Forest in Dorset.

Crews from 15 stations were called to the scene at around midday on Monday.

Around 150 hectares of heath and woodland is affected.

A major incident was declared on Monday evening after large plumes of smoke could be seen up to 15 miles away.

Sugar Hill and Bere Road remain closed, although the A35 between Bere Regis and Morden Park Corner has reopened.

The public is being advised to avoid the area.

The flames are being fanned by strong winds and smoke is drifting towards Wimborne, Poole and Hamworthy.

Public Health Dorset is advising locals to stay indoors and keep their windows and doors closed.

The fire service is reiterating its plea for everyone to take care around heathland.