Firefighters issue stern warning as arsonists blamed for wildfire near homes on Sheffield street
Blaze set alight near homes in Sheffield neighbourhood
Firefighters have issued a stern warning after a wildfire near homes on a Sheffield street caused fear among locals.
Residents called 999 last night after what was the latest in a series of fires on land known locally as Frecheville crags, behind Longstone Crescent.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service deployed crews to the scene, who spent an hour fighting the blaze.
It is understood there have been other fires in the area recently.
The fire service confirmed that three fire engines were sent to a wildfire after a call was received at 9.15pm.
It said: “Two extended hose reels were used to extinguish the fire and the incident had been dealt with by 10.30pm.
“The fire is believed to have been set deliberately.”
The fire service also issued a warning that lives were being put at risk and that those who were causing the blazescould be jailed for life.
Fire chiefs have called for anyone with information to report those responsible, anonymously if necessary.
The fire service warned: "Setting fires deliberately puts lives at risk.
“That's why the maximum sentence for arson is life in prison. We urge anyone with information about who has been setting these fires near Longstone Crescent to please share what you know by calling firestoppers on 0800 169 5558."
There was also a wildfire reported on the same evening on Manor Fields Park, near City Road Cemetery.
Dozens of firefighters battled to control the quickly spreading grass fire.
Today (August 14) , the park has been scorched black in all directions.
And fire crews have been in attendance today at a wildfire on moorland near Mortimer Road, near Bradfield, which has been burning for 48 hours.
Sheffield residents and community leaders have recently warned of their fears over the number of fires which have hit the city recently, as the heatwave continues after a long dry spell.
Firefighters say they and their control staff are continuing to work in incredibly challenging conditions.