Firefighters on alert amid spate of field blazes in Palgrave

These were the dramatic scenes on the front line as firefighters fought to control a field fire in Palgrave the latest blaze in the area as tinder dry conditions continue to pose risks.

Firefighters from South Norfolk and Suffolk were called to a blaze that swept through fields at Lion Road in Palgrave, near Diss, at 2.50pm yesterday.

Two fire crews from Diss were joined by firefighters from Harleston and Eye to tackle the blaze on the Norfolk-South border.

Fields of straw and stubble were ablaze sending a plume of black smoke into the sky that could be seen for miles.

The fire was the latest in the area with firefighters having also been called the fields ablaze in Palgrave and nearby Redgrave on Tuesday.

It has been the driest start to summer since modern records began 57 years ago, the Met Office has said, leaving the countryside with tinder dry conditions.

Mark Hardingham, Chief Fire Officer for Suffolk Fire and Rescue, said: 'With the extreme hot and dry weather, we encourage everyone to be extra vigilant. Be aware of fire risks when you are out in the open, especially near to standing crop, crop stubble or trees and undergrowth, all of which is currently tinder dry.'

National Farmers Union Deputy President Guy Smith said: 'The NFU is urging everyone out and about enjoying the iconic British countryside to act responsibly.

'Farmers should also take extra precautions given the increased risk such as having checked fire extinguishers on all vehicles involved in the harvest campaign and to put firebreaks in around fields as soon as they are harvested.'