On March 30th 2017, more than 20 firefighters tackled a large scale grass fire in Ruxley Gravel Pit in Sidcup.
Two hectares of grass and shrubland were reported to be alight, roughly equivalent to the size of two football pitches. Earlier reports suggested the blaze was double this size and also in the Orpington town centre area, however this was later reported as incorrect information.
The London Fire Brigade was called just after 1:30pm from the Orpington, Sidcup and Eltham departments, all at the scene soon after the fire was reported. The fire was said to be under control by 4:15pm and the main cause of the fire was said to be due to the warm weather; the first like it of the year.
These fires are known to cause a large deal of damage in open spaces and to wildlife however the public can help by making sure that cigarettes and barbecues are extinguished properly, and that glass bottles are disposed of carefully.
By Arushi Gupta
Bromley High School
