Crews tackle large fire on coastal heath

Seventeen fire crews are fighting a major fire on heathland on the Suffolk coast.

Crews were called to reports of a large wildfire at Dunwich Heath, near Leiston, on Wednesday evening.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was spreading rapidly south-west towards St James's Church, off Westleton Road.

Much of the area is a nature reserve owned by the National Trust, which said it was assisting firefighters and asked people to avoid the area.

The area is also close to the RSPB Minsmere nature reserve.

It asked people to avoid Westleton Heath, Mount Pleasant, Westleton Walks and the main bridleway from the entrance road towards Dunwich.

The fire service said 14 appliances were at the scene, with crews using equipment including off-road vehicles, drones and quad bikes.

"Members of the public are advised to avoid the area and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles," it said.

"Residents affected by smoke should keep windows and doors closed where possible."

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