Firefighters Tackle Tree Fire Near Ryde Amid Dry Conditions

Firefighters are tackling a tree fire in a remote woodland area near Ryde this lunchtime (Tuesday), with crews working to stop the blaze spreading.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was called to the incident off Quarr Road, Binstead, at around 11am.

The first crew on scene found the fire posed a risk to surrounding trees and undergrowth on land between Fishbourne and Ryde.

A second appliance from Newport and a water carrier from Sandown were sent to assist, with large quantities of water being pumped from a hydrant on Quarr Road and transported to the scene, close to the beach.

The incident is being treated as protracted, meaning firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for some time.

The fire comes after a prolonged spell of hot, dry weather, with another period of high temperatures forecast for next week.

The fire service is reminding people to take extra care in the countryside by disposing of cigarettes safely, clearing away glass bottles and broken glass, and only using barbecues in designated areas.

Anyone who spots a countryside fire should call 999 immediately and avoid attempting to tackle anything more than a very small fire.