Partners thanked for wildfire support

01 Sep 2022 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Following the successful management of a four-day wildfire near Redesdale, Forestry England has thanked the individuals and organisations involved in tackling the incident for their support.

The affected area, around two hectares in total, was brought under control through a team effort from Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service and Forestry England with the support of staff and volunteers from Northumbria Police, Northumbrian Water, Mountain Rescue, the Ministry of Defence, Northumberland National Park Authority and PDG Aviation Services.

Whilst the cause of the fire is yet to be established, recent high temperatures and low rainfall, coupled with the continuing legacy of last winter’s storms, contributed to the ferocity of the blaze as well as limiting options available to teams on the ground.

“The fire occurred in an area of windblown trees at Cottonshopeburnfoot in Redesdale” says Kevin May, North England Forest Management Director at Forestry England. “Thanks to the swift action of all those involved we were able to contain the fire’s spread and reduce the risk to the public and I would like to thank everyone who assisted.

“Through our long-term management of the nation’s forests, Forestry England is evolving our forests to consist of a range of different tree species, ensuring they are as resilient as possible to our changing climate as well as the threat of new pests and diseases. Continuing to work with partners to develop effective wildfire response plans is also key.”

Rob Stacey, Wildfire Lead with Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said "This was a large fire which took multiple agencies a number of days to bring under control in challenging, hot and dry conditions.

"It was a great example of organisations working together but clearly we'd rather none of us were needed in the first place.

"While the recent heatwave may now be behind us there remains a high risk for wildfires. We are asking residents and visitors to do the right thing, respect our countryside, take picnics instead of BBQS, don't light campfires and always take rubbish home."

Visitors to the nation’s forests can all do their part to limit the risk of fire. Avoiding use of disposable BBQs, not lighting fires and cigarettes and reporting any signs of fire or smoke to the emergency services makes a real difference. Visitors can learn more at forestryengland.uk/the-forest-code