A team of firefighters from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has been deployed to Suffolk to help tackle a large-scale wildfire at Dunwich Heath.

The team consists of one fire engine, crewed by four firefighters, and a 4x4 vehicle carrying two firefighters, who are supporting efforts to bring the blaze under control.

The fire is believed to have started at around 5pm on Wednesday, July 29, and at its peak covered around 250 acres – the equivalent of almost 140 football pitches.

Firefighters from across the country have been drafted in to help tackle the wildfire, with many expected to remain at the scene for at least another 48 hours.

A team of firefighters from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has been deployed to Suffolk to help tackle a large-scale wildfire.

placeholder image — A team of firefighters from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has been deployed to Suffolk to help tackle a large-scale wildfire.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service said significant progress has been made in recent days and the incident is now in a more stable and manageable phase, although a major response remains in place.

Cllr Tristan Gale, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member responsible for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I am pleased that, with favourable weather conditions and the tireless work of firefighters and partner organisations, the situation is now in a more stable and manageable position. While there remains a significant operation underway, progress is being made.

“I want to thank everyone involved in the response, including Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, neighbouring fire services, police, ambulance colleagues, local authorities, the Salvation Army, EDF Sizewell, volunteers and many others who have come together to support affected communities.

“Most importantly, I would like to pay tribute to our firefighters and support staff, who have worked around the clock in extremely challenging conditions to protect lives, homes and infrastructure.”