Firefighters suspect arson could have been the cause of flames yesterday (August 11) that covered up to an estimated 20 acres on the south-western edge of Horsham.
At 4.25pm, West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reported receiving more than 40 emergency calls about burning in a large field beside the A264 at Highwood, close to the junction with the A24.
A spokesperson said:
“Fire engines from Horsham, Crawley and Burgess Hill were mobilised to the scene, along with a number of off-road vehicles and the Water Carrier from Burgess Hill.
“Firefighters used eight hose reels and beaters to extinguish the fire, which had spread to between 10 and 20 acres of grassland.
“Due to the amount of smoke coming from this incident, and its prominent location, residents living nearby were urged to keep their doors and windows closed while the fire was extinguished."
Within three hours, by 7.20pm, the service said its crews had put out all the flames.
Fire officers returned twice, at midnight and at 6am today (Wednesday) to inspect the scene, confirming that no further firefighting action was required.
The service emphasised its universal plea:
“With further dry weather forecast, we would urge all residents to take extra care when out and about as the ground is exceptionally dry.”
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