Surrey Fire and Rescue Service has declared a major incident as firefighters tackle a ‘major fire’ at the Hankley Common beauty spot in Elstead.
Several fire engines were sent to the scene, where the blaze is believed to be affecting at least eight hectares of land, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service said.
People were advised to avoid the area with the warning to stay “away from the fire as it can spread quickly”.
Images and footage showed flames and large plumes of smoke billowing over the common street.
The fire service said it was called just after midday on Sunday and that it expected crews to remain at the scene until at least Monday.
The cause of the flames is unknown, the release said.
“We have declared a major incident at Hankley Common due to a large outdoor fire. We have several fire engines,” the fire service tweeted.
“There is a lot of smoke so please avoid the area, windows and doors should be closed if nearby and pets should be kept indoors.”
The common was used to film part of the James Bond film Skyfall.
Images and footage showed flames and large plumes of smoke billowing over the common street. Credit: Surrey Fire and Rescue Service
The fire comes after major fires were declared in several counties this week as temperatures soared above 40C and brought dry conditions.
“We are currently assisting our colleagues at a large fire in Elstead which broke out on a public street this afternoon (July 24),” Surrey Police said in a tweet. “Tursley Road is currently closed and we are asking people to stay away from the area while we deal with the incident.”
Although it said the cause of the fire was undetermined, the fire service urged people to “please help keep our outdoors safe: pack a picnic instead of a disposable barbecue and dispose of cigarettes properly”.
Credit: PA Media/Alan Johnson/Twitter
In the capital, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said it was battling a number of weather-related fires and urged people to cancel any planned barbecues.
The fire service said it was dealing with significant incidents in Enfield, Hayes and Thamesmead.
In a tweet on Sunday, the LFB said it had attended more incidents between midnight and 5pm than in a normal 24 hours.
“Please help us prevent further fires by canceling all planned barbecues, removing litter, especially glass from pastures and disposing of cigarettes properly,” he continued.
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