Major Moray wildfire continues to burn
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MORE than 50 firefighters are continuing to tackle a wildfire in Speyside.
Crew from across the Moray area as well as from Ballater and Carrbridge were in attendance yesterday and through the night, as were a number of estate representatives.
In an update this morning, a spokesman said: "The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 2.58pm on Sunday, April 21 to reports of a grass fire near Aberlour.
"More than 50 firefighters and 12 fire engines currently remain in attendance at Knockando, alongside a number of specialist resources, where crews are tackling a large wildfire.
"Crews will remain in attendance for some time as they work to extinguish the flames."
With dry conditions remaining, the force urged caution.
"We encourage everyone who is enjoying the countryside during this period of extreme danger to exercise caution and be aware of how easily fires can start – and spread."
The warning came after a large number of "significant wildfires" broke out across the country over the Easter weekend.
Rothes Community Fire Station, whose crews worked through the night, took to Twitter to echo the warning that an "extreme risk" remains.
The area's MSP Richard Lochhead paid tribute to those working at the scene.
He said: "The firefighters and volunteers who have responded to the fire at Knockando, and who have worked round-the-clock to bring it under control, deserve huge praise and I know the community appreciates their efforts."
It is understood a couple of homes to the south of Forres, near Berry Burn windfarm, have had to be evacuated as the fire continues to spread.
