More than 30 firefighters tackled a large field fire today as a major incident was declared in North Yorkshire due to the workload faced by the fire service.
Crews were called to the incident at Kirby Wiske at around 2.30pm.
Firefighters from Bedale and Stokesley were joined by crews from Leyburn, Richmond, Ripon, Harrogate and Boroughbridge at the scene.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported at 9pm that the fire had been extinguished but crews remained at the scene damping down.
A spokesperson said: “A long, hot afternoon for all on a very fast moving fire.”
North Yorkshire Fire And Rescue Service said this evening that it declared a major incident this afternoon due to the demand on its services.
Around 14 other fire services around the country have also declared a major incident today as temperatures topped 40C.
Speaking about the step Dave Winspear, Director of Transformation, North Yorkshire FRS, said: “We have responded to a number of significant incidents today, with 4 – 8 pumps being deployed simultaneously.
“Our resilience plans have been truly tested. Our Service has coped well and maintained the ability to respond to risks and threats to life across the City and county.
“Declaring a major incident is a procedural step in ensuring that our partners are aware of our level of response and that they are ready to step up to support us if needed.
“We are experiencing a protracted period of hot weather and we want to be sure that we have taken all necessary steps to keep the public safe.”
The service will review its major incident status along with its partners tomorrow morning.
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