The Stroud inferno broke out just hours after Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue was called to a series of fires on Exmoor. Crews from eight stations across both counties were deployed to tackle the incidents, disrupting Christmas Day for emergency responders.
The fires ignited on heathland across the common, with firefighters battling the flames throughout the afternoon and into the evening on December 25. Crews remained on scene overnight, finally extinguishing the blaze in the early hours of Boxing Day.
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue spokepsman said: “This is believed to be deliberate ignition.
“DSFRS spent most of Christmas Day dealing with a large heathland fire near West Anstey, Exmoor.
“A crew from Dulverton was mobilised to smoke seen coming from the ridge of West Anstey Common.
“Upon arrival, the crew confirmed a 60 metre fire front and requested a second pump.
“Over time, this was then escalated to six pumps and a water carrier, as well as a number of specialist officers and two ATVs.
“The fire is now believed to have been extinguished and crews have left the scene.”
