Blidworth: Homes evacuated as 15 crews tackle forest fire

A large amount of smoke could be seen billowing from the scene in Blidworth

Several homes were evacuated as firefighters dealt with a large forest fire in Nottinghamshire.

The county's fire and rescue service said it was called out to the blaze at a farm in Blidworth Lane, Blidworth, at about 13:35 BST on Tuesday.

About 15 crews and 75 firefighters have been involved in the operation with a major incident declared.

The fire service control room said it had taken 906 calls in 36 hours, against an average of 110 in 24 hours.

The highest temperature ever recorded in Nottinghamshire - and just half a degree below the new UK record - was 39.8C (103.6F) at Watnall, just a few miles from Blidworth.

Residents have since been allowed to return to their homes and the fire service said there were no reports of any injuries.

"We are currently dealing with an exceptional amount of incidents around the county including a significant fire in Blidworth," a fire service spokesman said.

"We are advising the public to avoid the area and if affected by the smoke to close their doors and windows."

He added they expected to be at the scene for a considerable amount of time.

Nottinghamshire Police said it had closed the Blidworth Lane junction of the A614 while the fire was dealt with.

Network Rail East Midlands also tweeted that a fire on the lineside at Lowdham had stopped services.

Six crews were also called to a flat fire in the Hockley area of Nottingham shortly before 18:00.

Emergency call handlers for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire dealt with an increase in calls of more than 312% since Monday morning.

Up to 14:30 on Tuesday, the counties received 906 calls from the public.

Calls at one point were diverted to Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service due to the high demand.