Firefighters remain on scene of large heath fire

A large heath fire that spread rapidly in windy conditions has three remaining areas where crews are on site to monitor possible flare-ups.

The fire at Holt Heath, north of Wimborne in Dorset, is believed to have been started deliberately on Saturday morning and has now burnt an estimated 72 hectares (177 acres) of land.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said its progress tackling the fire was "very positive news" and crews would remain overnight to continue monitoring.

A major incident had been declared due to the size of the blaze with appliances and specialist support from other parts of the country called in to help.

In an update, DWFRS said crews from 17 stations across the country had supported them in tackling the blaze from as far afield as Manchester, Merseyside and Lincolnshire.

A statement explained: "We appreciate all the support we have received, not just from these colleagues, but to everyone who has given assistance during this very challenging week.

"Crews are still working in three sectors dealing with an increase in flare ups, hotspots and deep seated fires identified using drones."

The heathland, cared for by the National Trust, is home to six native UK reptiles.

Rangers from the trust along with volunteers from Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Birds of BARI and Dorset Heaths have been combing the charred ground searching for survivors.

National Trust Purbeck ranger, Emma Finlinson said: "At first, we were only finding burnt and dead reptiles, which was really heart-wrenching.

"However, when we found the first live ones, it was really joyous. Being able to do something positive - even if only something small in comparison to the devastation of the fire - feels really worthwhile."

They have managed to save about 30 reptiles to date, including a sand lizard - the rarest lizard in the UK - a grass snake, slow worms and common lizards found sheltering in tiny pockets of vegetation.

The survivors have been released into areas unaffected by the fire.

The fire service said the cause of the fire at Holt Heath was currently unknown.

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