Photos show firefighters tackling Cannock Chase blaze as smoke fills the air

Photos have shown smoke filling the air over Cannock Chase as crews of firefighters work to tackle a grass blaze in the area.

A total of 15 fire engines from Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service were called to the area at 2.30pm on Wednesday (August 5).

The fire service has confirmed the seat of the fire is off Chase Road, close to Coppice Hill and Brocton. Police set up a cordon and members of the public were urged to avoid the area.

Pictures released by Staffordshire County Council have shows the work of crews to tackle the blaze.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire County Council said: “ Emergency services are continuing to tackle a large fire in the Sherbrook Valley area of Cannock Chase, just off Chase Road. Chase Road will remain closed from Brocton to Camp Road.

“People should continue to avoid the area, especially the western side of Sherbrook Valley, until emergency services inform us that the incident has resolved and the area is safe. Please respect the road closures that are currently in place.”

A fire service spokesman said: “A total of 15 fire engines are on scene and working to contain the fire on Cannock Chase. We were called to the area at about 2.30pm today (Wednesday 5 August) following a report of smoke coming from the area.

“A significant number of firefighters are actively responding to the fire, using water carriers, hose reel jets, main jets, a high-volume pump and more.

“Our colleagues from Staffordshire Police are also in attendance and are assisting with making the area safe and setting up a cordon. The seat of the fire is off Chase Road, close to Coppice Hill and Brocton.

“We will continue to provide updates on this incident and the potential impact on local residents and businesses as soon as we’re able. We’re asking people to avoid the area at this time and keep windows and doors closed.”