Fire crews tackle two field fires

Fire crews from Brighton and Hove were among those tackling two fires in fields this afternoon (Thursday 13 August).

The fire service said: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called at 12.56pm on Thursday 13 August to reports of a field fire near Ringmer.

“Approximately 50 metres by 50 metres of grassland is alight.

“One fire engine and two 4×4 vehicles are being sent to the scene. Please avoid the area by Norlington Lane.”

In an update, the fire service said: “As of 1.54pm, the fire is affecting two fields and one hedge. Wildfire beaters, hose reels and flexible backpack fire extinguishers are in use.

“As of 2.02pm there are now two fire engines from Preston Circus and Lewes in attendance, three 4×4 vehicles and support from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

“Steady progress is being made.”

In a further update, the fire service said: “As of 2.42pm, we are damping down hotspots and attendance has been reduced to one fire appliance from Lewes, one 4×4 and support from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.”

Just over 20 minutes after the blaze in Ringmer was reported, firefighters were also being sent a few miles away to Little Horsted, near Uckfield.

The fire service said: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called at 1.18pm on Thursday 13 August to reports of a fire in a field in Little Horsted.

“We are sending firefighters to the scene at Bradfords Lane. Please avoid the area.”

In an update at about 1.40pm, the fire service said: “The fire is affecting three fields and woodland. There are no reports of injuries.”

Ninety minutes later, the fire service issued another update, saying: “We remain on scene, with six fire engines, the 4×4 from Wadhurst, the water carrier from Uckfield and support from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

“Please continue to avoid the area.”