FIREFIGHTERS have hailed the support of farmers and local residents after they helped tackle a wildfire believed to have been started deliberately in Fradley.
The incident happened on Saturday afternoon (26th July) at land off The Moor.
Seven Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service crews were called to tackle the blaze, which measured around 500 metres by 600 metres.
They were helped by local farmers who created fire breaks in a bid to prevent the incident spreading.
An investigation has since revealed the fire was started deliberately.
Station manager Russ Brown, who attended the scene, said:
"Crews worked tirelessly to tackle this fire and stop it spreading to nearby farms, houses and kennels.
"A massive thank you to local residents and farmers who assisted us with water supply and creating fire breaks.
"I would like to reiterate how dangerous setting fires can be; we have seen in this incident how quickly fire can spread.
"Hundreds of metres of woodland and standing crops have been destroyed and the fire could have easily spread to nearby houses.
"Parents, please talk to your children about the dangers of setting fires and help us keep Staffordshire safe this summer."
