The incident on Wednesday affected heathland near the A53 at Longnor, near Leek, and threatened wildlife in the area.

Firefighters used beaters and compressed air foam to tackle the flames, which covered an area of about a square mile.

The fire was heading towards an site of special scientific interest before firefighters managed to douse it.

'Seats of fire'

The latest incident follows another fire at the Roaches during the Easter weekend.

Station Officer Del Roberts, who was at the scene, said it was likely the fire was started deliberately.

"The actual incident was discovered by one of the wardens who was up at the scene at that time and discovered three seats of fire.

"At this point in time we are leaning towards a deliberate act."

Wardens have reported a car seen in the area around the time the fire started.