Fire Crews Tackle Bonfire In Wootton As Dry Conditions Raise Wildfire Concerns

Firefighters from four Isle of Wight stations have been called to deal with an out-of-control bonfire in Wootton this morning — just six days after a national warning urged people not to light fires because of the heightened wildfire risk.

Three fire engines from Ryde, Newport and Ventnor were sent to woodland off Lushington Hill shortly before 7.45am.

Smoke could be seen rising above the area, while the smell of burning was noticeable across Wootton and Binstead.

A water carrier from Sandown was also brought in as Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service worked to bring the fire under control.

Crews found the blaze behind Lushington Hill Garden Centre and established that it had started as a bonfire.

The site is known to carry out controlled burning, but the incident comes less than a week after millions of people across England and Wales received an Emergency Alert warning of a very high risk of wildfires.

At the time, residents, landowners and visitors were urged to avoid activities which could spark fires.

Firefighters also specifically advised people not to have campfires or bonfires while the dry conditions continue.

Crews have remained at Lushington Hill this morning, damping down the fire around two hours after the initial call.

The road remains open in both directions, although traffic is moving slowly.

Police are assisting motorists as firefighters continue dealing with the incident.