Firefighters tackle heath and moorland blazes

Archie Farmer
BBC News, South West
Rupert Hanbury-Tenison A picture of people on the moors tackling the fire with the blaze and fire engine visible.Rupert Hanbury-Tenison
A landowner said the damage had caused distress and devastation to wildlife

Fire crews have dealt with a series of large heath and moorland fires across Bodmin Moor, Cornwall.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service was called out at about 21:15 BST on Saturday and worked to control the fires until the early hours of Sunday.

A landowner said the fire damage had caused distress and devastation to wildlife.

Devon and Cornwall Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fires and have appealed for anyone with information that may assist to get in touch.

Rupert Hanbury-Tenison A picture of the emergency services tackling the blaze in the moors. It is a large flame with workers beating it.Rupert Hanbury-Tenison
"These fires are really putting human lives at risk and it's very serious", said landowner Rupert Hanbury-Tenison

Rupert Hanbury-Tenison, who owns land in the Cardinham Moor area, said: "I've seen quite a few moorland fires but this was by far the biggest I've ever seen.

"There were an awful amount of fire crews and police up there, and I think the damage is going to be extensive."

He added: "These fires are really putting human lives at risk and it's very serious.

"The fire service were incredible, their professionalism, calmness and dedication was astounding to see."

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