A FIRE that has ravaged heathland in Dorset for four days now is believed to have been started deliberately, the fire service has said.

Smoke was first seen billowing from the site near Wimborne on Saturday (August 9), as homes were evacuated as the fire affected an area roughly the size of 106 football pitches.

A major incident was declared as tireless firefighters worked to contain the fire.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) now said it believes the fire could have been started deliberately.

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A spokesperson said: “We believe the recent spate of wildfires to be deliberate acts, and we would urge anyone with any information to contact the police or Crimestoppers.”

The fire has seen multiple flare ups Picture: DWF&R

Hotspots in the 170-acre (69-hectare) site have made life more difficult for crews – and with temperatures set to reach close to 30°C later this week, the National Trust is working to create additional firebreaks as a contingency.

But the fire service said they are unlikely to use helicopters or planes to dump water on the hotspots, as it would reportedly not have the best impact – but this may change.

“A lot of people have asked about using helicopters or planes, but the advice we are receiving from national tactical advisors is that airborne water supplies would not have the desired impact at this time,” a spokesperson said.

“However, this option remains under review and the position may change.”

The fire service said “good progress” was made overnight on Monday (August 11) with crews back on scene today to continue to dampen down and manage hot spots identified.

“We are working with our partner agencies and have further assistance of national assets from other fire and rescue services,” they said.

“We are also being supported by Bournemouth Water and the NHS for welfare of crews who continue to work in these hot conditions.”