A "terrifying" wildfire tore through Mawgan Porth Golf Club in Cornwall on Tuesday afternoon, forcing the evacuation of local residents and guests from nearby Merlin Farm Holiday Cottages. Ten fire engines responded to the blaze, which was reportedly ignited by a "spark from a tractor" hitting a stone in a dry field.
The incident occurred as Britain experienced one of its hottest days on record, with temperatures reaching 38C (100F) and an amber 'extreme heat' warning in effect. The intense heat and strong winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, which moved towards the holiday cottages within half an hour, necessitating an evacuation.
"It's a stark reminder of just how vulnerable we are, and how quickly things can change," a spokesman for Merlin Farm Holiday Cottages Cornwall stated. Residents were later allowed to return after the fire was brought under control, with no buildings at the farm sustaining damage. Both the holiday cottages and the golf club expressed gratitude to the firefighters for their efforts.
Widespread Wildfires and Record Conditions
The Cornwall fire is one of many blazes that have occurred across drought-hit Britain. So far in 2026, 1,017 wildfires have ravaged England and Wales, equaling the total number recorded in the previous worst year, 2025. Firefighters were also battling a major fire on Saddleworth Moor in Oldham overnight, with crews remaining at the scene to dampen down hotspots and monitor the area.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an amber heat health alert for the entire country, warning of a potential rise in deaths due to the extreme temperatures. Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill noted that such high temperatures could impact infrastructure like roads and railways, and increase health risks for the public.
Scrutiny of Environmental Policies
The surge in wildfires has prompted scrutiny of environmental policies, particularly regarding controlled burning. Traditionally, gamekeepers and farmers conducted controlled burns of heather and grasses in cooler months to encourage new growth. However, new rules implemented last year have extended restrictions on burning across 1.6 million acres of land, primarily targeting peatlands.
Jonathan Roberts of the Country Land and Business Association argued that these restrictions make it harder for land managers to carry out necessary controlled burns, thus increasing wildfire risk. He stated, "Government has in effect banned the single–most important method of preventing wildfires, and we are now living with the consequences. Put simply, they must reverse the policy immediately." The Countryside Alliance echoed these concerns, calling the decision "foolish" and warning of an increased risk of catastrophic wildfires.
In addition to the Cornwall and Saddleworth fires, over 100 firefighters have been tackling a blaze in the New Forest for four days. Fire crews in South Wales reported "carnage" while battling seven separate fires, some suspected to have been set maliciously. Mayor Andy Burnham has called for a ban on disposable barbecues, which he believes are contributing to many of the fires, and has hinted at a potential summertime ban.
Mawgan Porth, the village where the golf club fire occurred, is known as a celebrity hotspot, with residents including Cate Blanchett, Jason Momoa, and Stanley Tucci.
