Firefighters still battling large blaze on Cannock Chase
Firefighters remain at the scene of large grass fire in Cannock Chase today after a blaze broke out there last night.
A total of 12 fire crews, involving 85 firefighters, battled the blaze at its height - before it was extinguished by about 9pm.
Six crews remain at the scene today dampening down and checking for hotspots. Smoke is still rising from the scene, which is near Brook Lane in Brocton.
The scene involves 14 acres of grassland and bracken, which has been badly damaged.
Firefighters are concerned about a risk of leftover embers, which can set off fires again.
The risk has been heightened due to the weather today being warmer and windier.
The cause of the blaze is not yet known. The alarm was first raised at 5.15pm. Four crews from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service remained there overnight.
Firefighters were also assisted by Staffordshire Police and rangers from Cannock Chase.
Group manager Jim Bywater, from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Crews are continuing to check Cannock Chase for hotspots and would discourage anyone from visiting Cannock Chase for their daily exercise following last night’s major fire.
"We would like to thank our partners who helped us in tackling this fire, including Staffordshire Police for the use of their drone, and Forestry Commission rangers."
Roads through the beauty spot were closed as a result.
Plumes of spoke could be spotted from miles away as the blaze spread.
Staffordshire County Councillor Mark Winnington, cabinet member responsible for Cannock Chase said: "Our rangers were alerted to a fire on Cannock Chase yesterday evening, and assisted firefighters at the scene.
"The lack of rain we have had recently has caused the bracken on the Chase to become very dry, meaning that there is a high fire risk.
"Fires on the heathland can pose a threat to people, property and wildlife, so extra care is needed.
"Rangers are looking at the damage today, and we are asking people to stay away from the area while damping down continues and the fire is being investigated.
"Local people who are undertaking their daily exercise on the Chase are being asked to be sensible, and not to bring any flammable material such as cigarettes on site."
