Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Widemouth Bay, Bude at 17/04/2010 15:35

Three fire appliances from Bude attended a large fire involving the cliff near Widemouth Bay. The fire involving gorse and grass measured approximately 100 metres by 50 metres. Firefighters wearing two breathing apparatus and using two hosereels utilised a open water source to extinguish the fire. The fire was fought on two fronts, and is believed to have been started deliberately. Devon and Cornwall Police have been informed.

Update 1845hrs: The firefighters are making up their firefighting equipment and monitoring the fire for any re-ignition.

Whilst the fire crews were damping down, some people came up to them and stated that they started the fire unintentionally. Fire safety advice has been given and the cause of the fire has now been classified as accidental.

Update 2015hrs: Firefighters have now left the scene.

General Fire Safety Advice:
Members of the public are urged to take extra care during the prolonged dry weather conditions that we are enjoying at the moment. Fires can easily be started with lack of care and then spread quickly out of control.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=7266