A major incident has been declared following a wildfire in Warwickshire.

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service were called at 2.30pm on Thursday to reports of a large plume of smoke on Tothall Lane, Salford Priors in Stratford-on-Avon.

The fire service said: “On arrival crews discovered a wildfire which was spreading to nearby out-buildings.

“There are currently 10 appliances in attendance. This incident has been declared a major incident.

“We would like to express that there is a large emergency presence in the area and we continue to advise residents nearby to close all doors and windows.

“Please stay away from the area. Our control room is receiving a large number of calls, so please contact us only in a genuine emergency.

“It’s imperative that residents take all steps to reduce any fire risk. Please read advice on our social media channels about fire and water safety.

“West Midlands Ambulance Service and Warwickshire Police are also on scene.”

Meanwhile, West Midlands Fire Service said it was facing “extreme levels of demand” due to a fire in the Stourbridge area.

Drone footage published by the force showed a heat map of flames threatening to engulf homes in the area as smoke billowed across the town.

Stourbridge town hall has been set up as a rescue centre for people who have had to flee their homes.

In a post on social media, the fire service said: “We are currently facing extreme levels of demand as a service, and need your immediate help.

“Wherever you are in the West Midlands, please do whatever you can to stay safe and minimise the risk of outdoor fires.”

“If you are directly affected by an ongoing fire, please DO NOT risk tackling it yourself. Get to a safe place and call 999. We will do our very best to get help to you as soon as we can.

“If you must drive, take extra care if you are driving, avoid areas of dense smoke, and please don’t head to areas where fires are taking place to watch.”

More to follow...