Steam trains suspended due to moorland fire

Various green and brown trees and bushes, with flames engulfing some of them and white smoke filling the area.Image source, NYFRS
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Crews found that the blaze had "jumped" a fire break previously put in place

  • Published

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has suspended its steam train services while firefighters tackle a moorland blaze.

Fire crews were called at 18:30 BST on Monday to reports of smoke at Langdale Moor near RAF Fylingdales.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service said crews would be tackling the blaze "for some time", with seven remaining at the scene on Tuesday.

The NYMR said steam services would be on hold until further notice to help "reduce pressure" on the fire service.

It said: "Due to the large wildfire at Harwood Dale, which is outside the NYMR route but within the North York Moors National Park, we have made the decision to pause steam services until further notice.

"This is to help reduce the risk of lineside fires and reduce pressure on the fire service.

"We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding."

The NYMR said its heritage diesel fleet would still run its scheduled services.

A landscape showing trees, forests and grass, with smoke rising in the distance. It is dimly-lit, at dusk.Image source, NYFRS
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People living nearby were advised to keep windows and doors closed

A fire service spokesperson said crews found the fire had "jumped" a fire break put in place late on Monday, and advised local residents to keep windows and doors closed.

They added the fire was covering an area more than 980ft by 980ft (300m x 300m).

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