Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) has issued a stark warning to the public after tackling two substantial outdoor fires in the county overnight. Crews were dispatched to Shawell Quarry and Garendon Park, Loughborough, responding to reports of significant blazes amidst an extended period of hot and dry weather across the UK.
The first incident at Shawell Quarry was reported at 7:51 PM BST on Sunday, requiring attendance from multiple county crews and a water carrier. While the cause of this fire is yet to be established, LFRS confirmed it has been brought under control, with a re-inspection of the site planned for 1:00 PM on Monday. Shortly after, at 10:12 PM, fire engines were also called to a significant fire at Garendon Park, off Ashby Road, Loughborough. At its peak, five fire engines were at the scene. The cause of the Garendon Park blaze is also undetermined, with re-inspections scheduled for 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM on Monday.
These incidents occur against a backdrop of numerous wildfires across the UK, exacerbated by unprecedented hot and dry conditions. Central England has experienced no rainfall for 15 consecutive days, marking the longest dry spell in three decades. This prolonged drought has significantly heightened the risk of fires spreading rapidly and widely.
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service highlighted the increased likelihood of wildfires during this continued warm, dry spell. They urged the public to exercise extreme caution with anything that could potentially spark a fire in the countryside, local parks, or even private gardens. The spokesperson also reminded residents that approximately 90% of all wildfires in the UK are attributed to human behaviour, whether accidental or deliberate, and advised calling 999 immediately upon spotting any outdoor fire.
The current situation in Leicestershire mirrors broader national concerns, including an ongoing wildfire at Tintwistle Moor in Derbyshire, which began on 24 June. That incident led to a major incident declaration and has affected approximately 260 hectares (642 acres) of moorland and woodland, underscoring the severe impact of the dry conditions.