Major gorse fire ‘started by arsonists’
A GORSE fire that forced families to evacuate their homes yesterday morning was started deliberately, the fire service believes.
Eight fire engines and 60 crew members tackled the blaze in Newry, Co Down, on Friday night.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service was called to the scene close to Barley Lane and St Mary’s High School at 8.50pm.
Residents were temporarily evacuated as crews brought the blaze under control, fully extinguishing it at around 2am yesterday.
Group commander Brian Stanfield said: “They had to work hard in difficult conditions to bring the fire under control and extinguish the flames.”
No one was hurt and no buildings were damaged.