POLICE are investigating if a large heath fire which broke out in Ferndown was started deliberately.

As reported, firefighters were called to Parley Common Nature Reserve shortly after 4pm on Wednesday, June 7.

The fire service said that at the height of the incident, there were approximately 30 firefighters and eight appliances on scene.

Crews extinguished the fire using beaters and hose reels, and then spent time dampening down hot spots.

They remained at the scene for a total of 16 hours.

• Read more: Fire breaks out at Parley Common reserve near Ferndown

Now, Dorset Police are looking into the circumstances of the fire to establish whether it was started deliberately.

Video by Graham Woolcott

Police Constable Aimi Cowden, of Ferndown police, said: “I am appealing for anyone with information that could help us find out what led to the fire to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230087754.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.