Thanks to firefighters

As one of the residents of Glenuig and Roshven whose houses were saved recently, I would like to add my and my wife’s thanks to those already expressed to our wonderful fire-fighters and indeed our neighbours: we are very grateful that our homes were not converted to charred ruins by the wildfire that started above Kinlochmoidart.

While I understand the benefits of muir burning and could support its controlled use to maintain the health of the hillsides, the unfortunate uncontrolled wildfires that occur most springs across the Highlands clearly show that some initiators of muir burning fires (I hope a minority) either do not understand the concept of control, have not read the muir burn code or simply do not care.

On the moors of northern England, there is also a tradition of heather burning but with an established control mechanism: the intended area to be burnt is first encircled by a fire break (often a ploughed strip) but also taking advantage of natural features such as streams or rock faces) before the fire is lit. The fire is then watched by a band of people to ensure it remains within the designated area.

Over the years, this strategy results in the moors become a patchwork of land in different stages of regeneration which benefits a wide and diverse range of wildlife.

Those who feel the need, for whatever reason, to set fire to the hills would do well to follow their English counterparts otherwise they are no better than the redcoats and sailors in the pay of King George who burnt the Highlands, including ironically Kinlochmoidart, in the aftermath of the ’45.

Name and address supplied.