Emergency services tackling 'large' heath fire near Verwood as public urged to avoid area

The fire has been described as 'large'. Credit: Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue

Fire crews are currently tackling a large blaze in heathland near Verwood.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue says its teams are dealing with the fire, which has broken out on Boveridge Heath.

A spokesperson said, "We were called at 5.50am (1 July) after a fire was discovered in the undergrowth."

"This is a large and well-developed fire, in an area where access is difficult due to the density of the foliage."

Crews say it looks as though the fire may have been burning for some time. Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

"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."

Members of the public are being urged to avoid the area.

"There are lots of vehicle movements on the main access track so please avoid the area so firefighters can work safely."The area affected is approx 1.3 hectares.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue says good progress is being made in containing and extinguishing the fire, using a main jet, five hose reel jets and multiple beaters.

This a developing story. More to follow.

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