Two hectares of woodland affected by East Sussex wildfire

Crews from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) were called at 3.10pm on Monday, July 20 to reports of a wildfire at Abbots Wood in Arlington.

The fire service confirmed eight fire appliances were in attendance including crews from Hailsham, Eastbourne and Pevensey, 4x4s from Seaford and Crowborough and Uckfield's Dual Purpose Truck and Water Carrier.

Following the fire, Forestry England who manage the wood, stated the full extent of the damage from the fire is still being assessed.

A spokesperson for Forestry England said: “Forestry England can confirm that a wildfire at Abbotts Wood, East Sussex, which started on July 20, has affected 2 hectares of mature pine woodland.

"The full extent of the damage is still being assessed. Early indications suggest that around half a hectare of young oak and birch trees has also been destroyed. We are waiting to determine the impact on local wildlife.

“We would like to thank our neighbours for alerting us to the fire, as well as East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Sussex Police and local farmers who kindly assisted with damping down the site. We are extremely grateful for their support and swift response.”

The incident comes after a fire in a field in Stone Cross as well as other wildfires across West Sussex.