Fire fighters tackle Forres fire.
GRAMPIAN Fire and Rescue were out in Forres last night to quell fires which Grampian Police believe were started deliberately in the Muiry and Sanquhar Woodlands.
Thirteen firefighters from two appliances - one from Forres and one from Elgin - tackled for more than an hour, to bring the grass fire under control.
Police are appealing for information about the two fires, whcih destroyed an area of woodlands.
A witness walking her dogs nearby, told the ‘Gazette’ that the flames and smoke were visible behind homes at Adam Drive and Mackenzie Drive.
Constable Laura Begg from the Forres local policing team said: "The actions of those responsible are extremely dangerous and I would appeal for anyone with information to contact us."
A spokesman from the fire service said the fire started shortly before 7pm and firefighters used beaters, fire buckets and a high pressure lance directed from a forestry commission unit, which was also in attendance, to put out the fire.
The incident follows a report in last week’s ‘Gazette’ about a fire started in gorse bushes near a village on the banks of the River Findhorn which had to be extinguished by the fire service last Friday teatime.
Grampian Fire and Rescue have issued a ‘wildfire warning’ this week in light of the current hot, dry spell and potential for wild fires. The Forestry Commission are also on high alert.
Station Manager Mike Cordiner, Community Engagement Manager for Grampian Fire and Rescue Service said the exceptional dry weather has drastically pushed up the risk of grass, forest and hill fires.
He is warning against reckless and irresponsible fire-raising, following a number of grass fires and asking people to take extra care if they are out enjoying the good weather.
He warned that cigarettes should be completely extinguished before disposal and camp fires and portable barbecues should not be considered in remote areas where the ground and vegetation has become so easily ignited.
He has also warned landowners carrying out controlled burning, that it can easily get out of control.
Anyone with information should contact Grampian Police on 0845 600 5700. Alternatively they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
