Several homes are ablaze and two people are receiving treatment as firefighters work to contain a grassfire in the West Midlands. The region's fire service was alerted to the extensive grassfire near Stourbridge golf course just before 1.30pm on Thursday.
Approximately 60 firefighters are responding to the blaze, which covers about 40 acres. Six homes have been directly affected, and others in the area have reported power issues.
A fire service spokesperson stated that two people have been affected by heat and smoke. Stourbridge town hall has been set up to receive those fleeing their homes, with transport being arranged for those unable to make their own way.
Local councillor Andrew Southall confirmed that care-home residents have also been evacuated due to the fire. Some local rail services have been stopped for safety reasons.
The UK recorded its hottest day of the year on Thursday, with a provisional reading of 38.1C at Kew Gardens in west London. Forty locations across central and southern England recorded temperatures of 36C or higher.