FIRE crews from across Dorset were called to a large fire on Studland Heath yesterday (July 12).

The incident, in the Ferry Road area, was reported at around 10.55am, with fire crews from Swanage, Poole, Wareham, Hamworthy, Bere Regis, Ferndown, Redhill Park and Verwood among those sent to the scene.

A Swanage Fire Station spokesperson said: “On arrival we were faced with a large fire some distance away from the road.

“An assistance message was sent back asking for four Land Rovers, one Unimog and a water carrier.

“The fire was difficult to extinguish due to lack of water nearby, poor access to the fire and a strong wind.

“A bit later two more off road appliances were requested to help with damping down.”

Crews from Swanage returned to the station at 4.30pm, with other crews taking over to damp down the area to prevent further fire.

The area, officially known as the Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve, is managed by the National Trust and is a site of special scientific interest, due to it being an important example of lowland heath.