Aerial images reveal extensive damage to farmland after a significant crop fire erupted at Manor Farm in Hayling Island, Hampshire, on Monday. The blaze required the intervention of over 50 firefighters, with plumes of smoke prompting approximately 40 emergency calls.
The fire, which began around midday, scorched two-thirds of one field and damaged half of an adjacent field. Fire crews were engaged in dampening operations when the fire reignited later that afternoon, necessitating their return to the scene. Crews revisited the site Tuesday morning to ensure no lingering risks.
Harry Walter, whose father owns the farm, described the intensity of the fire, noting flames reaching six to 10 feet high and the rapid spread exacerbated by wind. He highlighted the community effort involving firefighters, volunteers, local farmers using machinery, and residents with shovels and hosepipes.
"Fires in this weather can spread very fast," Walter stated, acknowledging the significant financial loss as the harvested crops are unusable for market this year. The farm carries insurance to cover the financial impact. Fortunately, no individuals were injured, and damage to farm equipment was minimal, though a combine harvester narrowly avoided destruction.
This incident follows a similar, smaller fire at another of the family's farms the previous week, which was believed to have been caused by a cigarette. That fire destroyed approximately an acre and a half of crops.
"Everything is so dry at the moment. Anything hot that is thrown out of a car is enough to set a fire off," Walter commented, underscoring the heightened fire risk during dry, hot weather. The cause of the Manor Farm fire remains unknown, according to the fire service.