Skip to content

Ickburgh: Forest blaze tackled by dozens of firefighters

Shaun Whitmore/BBC Firefighter and fire engine in forest at IckburghShaun Whitmore/BBC
Staff have been taking regular rest breaks and keeping hydrated in the heat, the fire service said

Firefighters are continuing to tackle a forest fire which began on Sunday.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service sent 26 vehicles, including 4x4s and a water carrier, to Ickburgh at 18:30 BST.

Firefighters from Wymondham, Methwold, Heacham, Long Stratton, King's Lynn and Wretham were at the scene overnight.

Steve Keen, station manager for the southern district, said the fire affected 1,000 sq m (10,762 sq ft) of woodland, with crews remaining on site to tackle the flames.

Shaun Whitmore/BBC Steve Keen, station manager for the southern district of Norfolk Fire ServiceShaun Whitmore/BBC
Station manager Steve Keen said access had been difficult

"It's quite difficult to access due to the nature of ground here," he said.

"The fire is quite deep seated too - it's in the ground and into the peat.

Shaun Whitmore/BBC Firefighter dampening the ground after forest fire in IckburghShaun Whitmore/BBC
Firefighters have been dampening the forest floor at Ickburgh

"We will continue for a few more hours while we find those hot spots.

"It's hard working conditions, so we are making sure crews are taking rest periods and keeping hydrated."

Presentational grey line

Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email [email protected]