Councillor praises Suffolk emergency services for their response to fire incident
Tristan Gale commends efforts in stabilising Suffolk countryside fire
Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, Councillor Tristan Gale, has issued a statement acknowledging the considerable efforts of emergency services and partner organisations in controlling a significant fire in the Suffolk countryside.
The operation, which benefits from favourable weather conditions, remains substantial, although recent efforts have led to a more stable and manageable situation.
Councillor Gale expressed gratitude to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, neighbouring fire services, police, ambulance services, local authorities, and organisations like the Salvation Army and EDF Sizewell for their collective support.
"The use of specialist resources, including heavy machinery and aerial support, has played an important role in helping crews tackle this fire," Gale noted.
He particularly commended firefighters and support staff for their dedication amidst challenging conditions to protect lives, homes, and infrastructure.
While the fire has devastatingly affected treasured heathland and wildlife habitats in Suffolk, local communities have demonstrated remarkable kindness and resilience.
"We have seen the very best of Suffolk. Local communities have rallied together to support one another," Gale remarked, praising the community's response.
Suffolk County Council remains committed to closely monitoring the situation and supporting ongoing efforts to manage and contain the fire.
Charlotte Du Cann, a local resident who first alerted the fire service, described her experience witnessing the initial flames as she returned from swimming in the sea.
Du Cann, 70, attempted to stamp out the fire with her feet, but the blaze rapidly spread across Dunwich Heath, near Leiston, as the heather caught fire.
Speaking from the village hall in Westleton, she recalled the incident: "I was walking back from Dunwich Heath, the beach, and heard a crackle...there was a circle of fire...it suddenly lit the heather."
Her quick response included contacting emergency services immediately and providing the coordinates of the fire's origin.
Du Cann saw no signs of human activity sparking the fire, saying the area was off the beaten path with no evidence of cigarettes or camping equipment.
Reflecting on the impact, she shared her heartbreak over the loss to the local landscape she holds dear.
"This is my heartland. I just can't bear the thought of all these wild things that have gone up in flames. It's devastating."
Du Cann's actions underline the local community's proactive role in supporting the emergency response.
The council extends its appreciation for the dedication, professionalism, and community spirit of all involved.