A HELICOPTER was called in to help deal with the Wareham forest fire yesterday which had flared back up due to the strong winds.

As reported, more than 150 firefighters returned to the blaze to control flare ups, after the initial fire damaged around 190 hectares of land.

It was the first time in Dorset a helicopter had to be called to deal with a fire.

Ferndown Fire Station tweeted: “Another 24 hours for our crews as day five in attendance draws to a close.

Bournemouth Echo: Picture: DWFRSPicture: DWFRS

“Unfortunately, the high winds whipped the fire up again. For the first time ever in Dorset we had a fire helicopter join us this afternoon.”

A post on Wareham Fire Station’s Facebook page said: “Today we’ve called in some air support from Wales to deal with an outbreak of fire.

“Please can we remind everybody this major incident is ongoing so please stay away from the whole of the Wareham Forest area.”

Swanage fire station confirmed 25 pumps were being used because of the high winds.

The smoke had travelled as far as Bournemouth, Poole, Ferndown and Wimborne on Friday, and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue urged people not to have disposable barbecues this bank holiday weekend.