A wildfire has affected more than 8 hectares of heathland on Chapel Common, north of Petersfield.
Nine fire engines were called out to the protected site of special scientific interest just before 8 yesterday morning.
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “We received a 999 call at 7:50am on Sunday morning to reports of a fire on Chapel Common near Milland.
“Throughout the day, Joint Fire Control has mobilised a total of 9 fire engines from across West Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey to the scene.
“Firefighters worked hard to extinguish the fire using jets and beaters, which covered approximately eight hectares.
“Crews remained on scene until 11pm. Firefighters returned to the scene this morning to carry out a reinspection and continued to dampen down the area to ensure there were no further hotspots.
“Investigations carried out at the scene suggests that the fire was started by a campfire. During periods of hot, dry weather we urge people to take extra care and avoid lighting fires in the countryside. What starts as a small fire can quickly take hold and become much larger. Further advice on preventing wildfires can be found at https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/west-sussex-fire-and-rescue-service/home-fire-safety/seasonal-safety-advice-summer/.”
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, fire crews in East Sussex have been dealing with a blaze in Newhaven which began in the early hours of this morning in a scrap yard in North Quay.
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