Fire crews called to a deliberate fire in Hotham Park

Fire crews were called to the site at 6:12am this morning and found the tree well alight after a nearby fire had spread.

The team used a high pressure hose reel to extinguish the fire and no further damage was done.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue said: Fortunately, a passer by had noticed the fire and called 999, but, had they not been passing by at the time, the fire could have caused far more damage.”

The spokesperson took pains to remind residents of the risks involved with starting a fire. They said: “We have experienced a number of deliberate fires across the country in the past week and we would like to remind all residents of the dangers of starting a fire before we are faced with a significant incident.”

“During periods of dry weather, it doesn’t take much for a small camp fire or bonfire to take hold and quickly get out of control, spreading to nearby trees or buildings.” They added.

“This can be disastrous, not only damaging our countryside and properties, but putting other people’s lives at risk. Nobody wants to have to deal with the consequences of this. We would ask those responsible to think twice about their actions and the impact on others.”