Huge fire engulfs Blidworth as roads are closed

A huge fire has broken out in Blidworth, Nottinghamshire, which emergency services are calling a “major incident”.

The blaze is on a farm in Blidworth, and local residents are being evacuated by authorities as the forest fire continues.

A statement from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue said: “We received a call at 1.35pm today (July 19) to reports of a fire in the open.

“Currently, we have 15 crews in attendance at this incident from around the county including support from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service.

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

“We thank the public for their cooperation in this difficult situation as we work to resolve the incident.”

Nottinghamshire Police said: “Earlier we assisted our fire service colleagues in the evacuation of local residents as a precaution due to this incident. Crews are still tackling the blaze and road closures remain in place. However residents are now being allowed to return home.”