Huge fire breaks out on Dartmoor - latest updates
See the large fire on Dartmoor
A huge fire has broken out on Dartmoor.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed the blaze started on Thursday 11 February near Peter Tavy, a few miles north east of Tavistock.
Multiple units have been deployed to the fire which has spread to 5km across the moor, but teams initially struggled to get close due to its remote location.
This morning, Friday 12 February, the emergency service said there had been "no significant fire spread" by 6.30am and firefighters were maintaining a watching brief "from various vantage points".
Numerous people have posted pictures and videos of the fire lighting up the night sky with some even spotting the flames from as far away as Cornwall.
Hampshire Fire and Rescue has been supporting the Devon service as they tried to prevent any more of the fire spreading.
Rob Steemson, Dartmoor National Park emergency office said the blaze was estimated to be around 5km wide.
He said it was not clear how or where the fire started, but that "strong" winds were pushing it further across the moorland.
The fire has been burning on a remote stretch of the moorland and no residents or animals were injured, according to reports, although images on social media showed a large section of the moorland ablaze.
Social media users said the blaze could be seen from parts of Cornwall, while others have estimated it could be stretching around three miles wide.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service warned people to "avoid the area" and not to be tempted to get closer for photos.
Tweeting overnight the service said: "We’re maintaining our presence but fighting in ‘defensive mode’, which means we’re working to stop the fire from getting worse until conditions improve for us to do more.
"We’ve assessed the situation and there is currently no risk to life in the path of the fire.
"We will continue to monitor the spread of the fire with spotters and a drone and change our tactics if needed."
They have also asked that people stay away from the area.
"We’re aware that some people have arrived nearby to get a glimpse/photo of the fire. This is extremely dangerous and certainly not an essential journey! Please stay away from the area for your own safety."
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