Investigation launched into wildfires across north of Scotland

Police and the fire service have launched a joint investigation after a series of wildfires burned for several days in parts of northern Scotland.

Fire crews spent five days dealing with the blazes across several locations, with the area described as being on a “vast scale”.

The affected areas include Carrbridge, Grantown-on-Spey, Dava and Upper Knockando.

The wildfires have mostly been extinguished as of Wednesday evening, though one fire engine remains at Grantown-on-Spey as a precaution.

Firefighters used specialist equipment including all-terrain vehicles, fogging units, leaf blowers and beaters to bring the flames under control.

Police said they were trying to establish the circumstances around an area in the Highlands.

Chief Inspector Mike MacKenzie, local area commander, said: “Fortunately no-one has been injured but a large swathe of the countryside has been badly affected. I would like to thank all the emergency services and the public involved.

“Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and this includes the area around Lochindorb between Carrbridge and Dava and the area around Loch Allan near Dava.

“We are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious or has any information that could assist with the investigation to get in touch.”

The fire service said residents living nearby should keep doors and windows closed.

Deputy assistant chief officer Kenny Barbour said: “One fire appliance remains in Dava, near Grantown-on-Spey, as a precaution following wildfires which affected areas of the Highlands and Moray from Saturday, June 28.

“This incident has been challenging and saw a significant deployment of resources to the area, including on call and wholetime crews from Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highland who worked effectively alongside landowners and partner agencies.

“I’d like to recognise the efforts of all firefighters who attended and particularly those who are on call and often combine this role with other jobs in the community.

“They continue to be invaluable in responding to incidents like these that impact hugely on rural areas.”