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Surrey and Hampshire firefighters tackle Caesar's Camp wildfire near Farnham

Marcus McQuilton

<p>Smouldering undergrowth after the fire at Caesar’s Camp near Farnham.</p>
<p>Smouldering undergrowth after the fire at Caesar’s Camp near Farnham.</p>

Firefighters from Hampshire and Surrey were called to a wildfire at Caesar’s Camp yesterday after residents reported seeing smoke in North Farnham and Aldershot.

Residents in Upper Hale and Aldershot reported seeing smoke during the late afternoon on Thursday, August 6.

Scorched trees at Caesar's Camp from blaze on August, Thursday 6
Scorched trees at Caesar's Camp from blaze on August, Thursday 6

Firefighters were alerted to a large fire involving bushes and undergrowth off Cranmore Lane, Aldershot, at around 3.30pm.

Fire crews tackled the blaze from both Cranmore Lane and Caesar’s Camp, cordoning off a section of the popular walking destination.

Crews from Rushmoor, Fleet and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service used off-road vehicles and water carriers to access and extinguish the fire using hose reels and beaters.

Firefighters left the scene at around 6pm, with one crew returning periodically overnight and into the morning to carry out reinspections and check for any flare-ups.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service recently issued a fresh warning as rising temperatures increase the risk of wildfires in areas such as Caesar’s Camp.

A similar incident on February 1, 2022, caused disruption when strong winds fuelled a fire that spread through almost a mile of bush and undergrowth.

Residents and visitors are being urged to stay alert and report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 999 immediately.

The service is asking the public to help reduce the risk by avoiding disposable barbecues, disposing of cigarettes responsibly and sticking to marked paths during outdoor activities.