FIRE crews from Holsworthy and Launceston fire stations were called to reports of a field on fire in the area of St Giles on the Heath.

It transpired upon arrival, during the evening of March 31, that the fire being reports was an attempt at swailing a 30 acre stubble field on their farm.

After inspecting the fire, which was reported to be a 200 metre slow moving fire front, the officer in charge of the response decided that the burn required greater control to prevent further spread after initially assisting to extinguish the blaze with beaters.

After the blaze had been extinguished, the incident was quickly resolved and responsibility for managing it returned back to the farmer.

Officers have issued a plea to anyone planning to have a bonfire, controlled burn or swailing to inform their fire control in advance of the event in order to help mitigate the risks posed in dry weather conditions of the fire becoming out of control.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Two appliances one from Holsworthy and one from Launceston were mobilised to reports of a field on fire near to this area. After searching the area crews located the incident and liaised with the farmer who was swailing their 30 acre stubble field.

“Our crew assisted the farmer in extinguishing the remaining 200 metre slow moving fire front with beaters, the officer in charge decided the burn needed greater control to prevent any further spread. The incident was quickly resolved and responsibility was handed back over.

“Due to the dry weather conditions there is a high risk of outdoor fires spreading quickly if not controlled. So if you are planning on having a bonfire / controlled burn or swailing, please inform our fire control room via the online form or phone number on our website.”