Fire crews tackle large wildfire at national park

Fire crews are tackling a large wildfire in the Cairngorms National Park, with “large volumes of smoke” travelling towards nearby towns.

Four appliances and specialist wildfire resources were dispatched to the blaze at Ryvoan Bothy, near Nethy Bridge, at about 11.50am on Wednesday.

There are no reported casualties.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has advised residents in Aviemore, Glenmore and the surrounding communities to keep doors and windows closed.

Hillwalkers and other visitors to the national park have also been advised to avoid the area.

Group Commander Raymond King said: “We are currently in attendance at a large fire in the open near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park.

“Operations Control were first alerted at 11.49am and we have mobilised four fire appliances and specialist wildfire resources to the area.

“There are no reported casualties.

“Due to large volumes of smoke travelling towards populated areas nearby, residents in Aviemore, Glenmore and the surrounding communities should keep their windows and doors closed.

“If you are within this area and can see or smell smoke, please follow the same advice.

“While we want people to enjoy the good weather, we ask that anyone in the Cairngorms National Park near to Aviemore and Glenmore avoid the area.

“This part of the Cairngorms National Park is popular with hillwalkers, and we ask that people remain vigilant while active firefighting continues.”

A spokesperson for the Cairngorms National Park Authority said: “The ongoing incident near Ryvoan Bothy is deeply concerning, and we are grateful to all those who are working to tackle the fire.

“We would echo the advice of SFRS to avoid the area while firefighters and partners work to bring this blaze under control.

“This incident – alongside wildfires we are seeing across the UK this week – serves as a stark reminder of the risks that periods of drier, hotter weather can pose.”

Firefighters are are also battling a gorse fire at Garry Park Wood at Lochore Meadows Country Park in Fife.

Videos seen on social media showed flames and smoke rising from the park.

The SFRS said they were alerted to the blaze at about 3.15pm on Wednesday, and mobilised one appliance to the scene.

Parts of Scotland are at very high risk of wildfire over the next few days and the fire service has warned people to “stay vigilant” and act responsibly.

The SFRS, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum, has issued wildfire warnings for the central Highlands, southern and eastern Scotland.

The alert, warning of a very high risk of wildfire, is in force from Wednesday until Monday.

It follows days of hot and dry weather in many parts of the country.

Fire service wildfire tactical adviser Kevin Dingwall said: “We know many people will want to enjoy the warmer weather. If you’re spending time outdoors, please do so responsibly and take simple steps to prevent fires from starting.

“Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.

“Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That’s why it’s so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.

“Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.

“You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors.”

The fire service said anyone who sees a large outdoor fire should call 999 immediately, giving the location and any other relevant information.