The fire service said that the blaze was almost certainly deliberately started.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service Ashfield Station said:
‘During the early hours of this morning Sunday 29 June, while most of us were asleep, six appliances including a wildfire unit responded to a fire at Brierley Forest.
‘It is believed the fire was deliberately started.
‘This is not just senseless — it’s heartbreaking.
‘A beautiful forest has been damaged
‘Wildlife habitat has been destroyed
‘Fire crews and appliances were tied up, unable to respond to other potentially life-threatening emergencies
‘And the cost — both environmental and financial — is huge
‘If you saw anything suspicious or have any idea who might be responsible, please contact the police immediately. This is a serious crime, and our community deserves better.
Please share — let’s spread the word and help prevent this from happening again.’
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