Tractor fire in Crooked Oak Hill, Melplash

Crews from Beaminster and Bridport fire stations were mobilised at 5.48pm to reports of an agricultural vehicle fire at Crooked Oak Hill, Melplash.

On arrival they found a tractor and grass cutter on fire - and the flames had spread to the surrounding grass.

The grass cutter was saved. Picture: Bridport Fire Station

The incident commander requested a small off-road vehicle and a heavy off-road appliance since the location was remote.

Using hose reel jets and a compressed air foam main line, firefighters managed to save the grass cutter.

Unfortunately the tractor was destroyed.

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• Tractor and truck destroyed in shed fire as amber wildfire alert issued

Yesterday an amber wildfire alert was issued for Dorset and Wiltshire due to the unseasonally warm and dry weather expected this week - and farmers are being urged to take particular care.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service group manager Jason Moncrieff said: “While the warm and dry spring weather is very welcome after the winter, it does increase the risk of fires spreading quickly if something happens to cause ignition.

"We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”

This is the first amber wildfire alert of 2022 in Dorset and Wiltshire. 

An amber alert means that, should a wildfire be experienced, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions. 

The risk is greatest on large areas of open land, such as heathlands, fields and even cliffsides.