Wheat Field Ablaze: Firework Sparks 10-Acre Inferno

A devastating wildfire, believed to have been ignited by a firework, consumed more than 10 acres of wheat at Slyfield Farm on July 10th. The farmer, Steve Conisbee, reported approximately £8,000 in damages and expressed his devastation, noting that a large oak tree in the field was scorched and several birds perished.

Surrey Fire and Rescue's Area Commander David Nolan highlighted the escalating situation, with the service responding to about two wildfires daily. He urged the public to exercise extreme caution with potential firestarters like cigarettes, disposable barbecues, and fireworks during the current hot and dry conditions. Farm workers' swift actions, creating a firebreak using water from the River Mole, were credited with helping to contain the blaze.