Updates as firefighters battle huge blaze at Ashdown Forest, six times the size of London's Trafalgar Square

Latest updates as six fire engines are currently at the scene of a large blaze in Ashdown Forest.
Six fire engines have been called to the scene. Picture: Aaron MurphySix fire engines have been called to the scene. Picture: Aaron Murphy
Six fire engines have been called to the scene. Picture: Aaron Murphy

UPDATE 00.18hrs - Firefighters from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Kent Fire and Rescue Service are now assisting with the fire.

The blaze continues to cover a large area of Ashdown Forest.

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The fire service was called at 9.32pm tonight to the large fire in the 'Winnie the Pooh forest', a spokesman confirmed.

The fire is currently ongoing. Picture: Pete AbelThe fire is currently ongoing. Picture: Pete Abel
The fire is currently ongoing. Picture: Pete Abel

Six fire engines are at the scene in the Kingstanding area, along with four land rovers, a water carrier and a mobile command unit.

Swathes of the famous forest are currently alight, with as much as six hectares on fire, the fire service confirmed.

One hectare is about the size of London's Trafalgar Square, for comparison.

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The fire service spokesman said: "A command unit and various officers are on site tackling a fire.

"It doesn't appear to be near any houses or anything."

The fire service said that the fire does not appear to be a danger to anyone at this time.