A farmer in Hilperton, near Trowbridge in Wiltshire, is facing thousands of pounds in losses after a significant fire destroyed 129 straw bales and damaged two fields on 24 July.
Ian Cradock, whose family has farmed in Hilperton since 1933, stated that it is "possible" he will spend close to £10,000 to replace the lost straw bales and hedgerows. He noted that bales were valued at £40 each this year.
Vital hedgerows, which provide habitats for wildlife, and a dedicated wildflower area were also destroyed in the blaze. Investigations are currently underway into the cause of the fire, which the fire service believes was accidental and resulted from an out-of-control bonfire.
Crews from multiple stations, including Bradford-on-Avon and Devizes, tackled the flames, which were extinguished in the early hours of 25 July. The incident also led to approximately 114 properties losing power due to damage to overhead lines.
The National Farming Union (NFU) has highlighted fires as a major risk for farmers during heatwaves and urged the public to exercise extreme caution, advising against barbecues and bonfires on grass or moorland.