AROUND 70 firefighters are currently involved in tackling a heath fire at Ham Common in Poole.

Dorset Fire and Rescue received a succession of 999 calls from members of the public from 2.45pm this afternoon, reporting a large amount of smoke coming from the common.

The beach has been evacuated and eleven fire engines have been deployed, as well as three Landrovers and a Unimog truck.

Around 200metresx50metres are involved, say Dorset Fire and Rescue. 

Peter McDouglas said the fire had been burning for about an hour, with smoke blowing back onto the beach. 

He said "It's a shame we have to leave but better safe than sorry."

Sarah Philips said: "We saw it when it was just a small bit of smoke but it's suddenly got a lot bigger and we've been asked to leave by the police."

Just over a month ago, there was another majot blaze at Ham Common, which was tackled by 50 firefighters. In that blaze, believed to have been arson,  the alarm was raised by people on the beach, who were immediately evacuated. Details are here. 

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