Fire at Moneyscalp Wood, Newcastle
A major fire at Moneyscalp Wood is now under control says the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).
A spokesperson said: “NIFRS was called to a gorse fire near to Moneyscalp Wood at 3.07pm on Thursday 20 April 2023.
“At the height of the incident Fire Crews from Rathfriland, Banbridge, Kilkeel, Newcastle, Downpatrick and a Command Unit from Lisburn were in attendance at the incident.
“The incident was dealt with by 6.21pm on Thursday and the cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate ignition.”
Following the huge blaze in the Mournes around Slieve Donard, the impact of the fire is still to be seen on the sensitive habitat for a diverse flora and fauna.
If anyone knows anything about how this fire started, they are urged to contact the NIFRS or the police on 101.
The dry summer season lies ahead. take care in the countryside and avoid lighting fires and BBQs and dispose of cigarettes safely. Glass bottles can also cause fires if the sun magnifies the sun’s rays.
Protect the environment!