A tractor was burnt out and a muck spreader damaged in a fire near Blandford this morning (Friday, March 25).

The fire service was called to Iwerne Hill at 7.40am with reports of a large vehicle fire.

Two crews from Blandford were mobilised and on arrival found a tractor pulling a muck spreader well alight.

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Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used hose reels jets and a water shuttle to extinguish the fire.

The fire completely destroyed the tractor and partially damaged the muck spreader.

Crews remained on scene until just after 9am.

No casualties were reported.

The unseasonally warm and dry weather has lead to the first amber wildfire alert of 2022 issued by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS).

DWFRS group manager Jason Moncrieff said: “While the warm and dry spring weather is very welcome after the winter, it does increase the risk of fires spreading quickly if something happens to cause ignition.

"We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”