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More than 100 firefighters tackle wildfire in 'major incident'

BBC Smoke coming from the Mourne MountainsBBC
More than100 firefighters and 14 fire appliances are tackling a fire close to the Mourne Mountains

A major incident has been declared at a "significant wildfire" in County Down, close to the Mourne Mountains.

Fourteen fire appliances and more than 100 firefighters are working to extinguish the blaze on Sandbank Road in Hilltown.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said the blaze stretches for approximately two miles, including a large area of forestry and close to property.

NIFRS Group Commander Ross Toland told BBC News NI that a small number of nearby residents have been asked to leave their homes overnight.

He said that firefighters are "working very hard in tough conditions to protect the properties which are closest to the fire", adding that the operation will likely continue into Sunday morning.

It comes as the National Hazards Partnership issued an amber wildfire warning this weekend, highlighting the likelihood of fires that could be difficult to control.

People are being asked to avoid the area. The main Hilltown to Rostrevor Road and Sandbanks Road were closed for a number of hours but have since reopened.