An expanse of high flames greeted firefighters who were called to reports that a gorse fire had broken out.
Crews from Perranporth and Tolvaddon fire stations were sent to St Allen, not far from Zelah off the A30, just after 7pm on Thursday.
A spokesperson for Perranporth Fire Station said that after Critical Control received calls to a fire in the open, one of its pumps headed out with a crew of four to investigate.
However, it was not an easy job from the start.
Photo: Perranporth Fire Station
The spokesperson said: "Difficult access to the incident resulted in crews making their way on foot from the road."
The station's light four-wheel drive pump Land Rover (L4P) was requested and shortly after it arrived a further call for back up, with a second pump and further personnel, was made as 7.40pm.
This was not the end of the difficulties however.
Photo: Perranporth Fire Station
With reports of uncapped mineshafts in the area and darkness falling, the safety of firefighters was in danger.
The Perranporth crew spokesperson said: "Crews used a reciprocating saw and beaters to create fire breaks and the fire was allowed to burn."
Photo: Perranporth Fire Station
A Cornwall Fire and Rescue spokesperson added: "The crew arrived to find an area of high gorse measuring 60 metres by 100 metres alight.
"Due to the fading light and potential hazards, crews monitored the fire until it burnt out and reached natural breaks."
The incident marked the first fire for new Firefighter Chidgey, who joined the team last week.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel