A significant wildfire erupted in the New Forest after a van caught fire on the A31 on 9 August, with flames rapidly spreading across more than 100 hectares of woodland and heathland. The incident required a major emergency response, with approximately 130 firefighters deployed at the peak of operations. Crews were drawn from the local area as well as neighbouring counties and beyond to contain the blaze, which continued to demand active firefighting efforts for two weeks before all personnel were able to leave the scene.
Retained firefighter Matt O’Hare, 27, from Fordingbridge Fire Station described the initial challenge of reaching the fire, noting the surreal sight of stopped vehicles lining the A31. He recalled the uncertainty faced by crews as they assessed the scale of the challenge ahead. Despite working in heatwave conditions and navigating difficult terrain, firefighters focused on tackling their assigned sections of the fire under direction from senior officers.
Many firefighters balanced their emergency service duties with other employment commitments. O’Hare managed 10-to-12-hour shifts at the fire while continuing his regular manufacturing job during standard business hours. Watch manager Shaun Lincoln, 59, characterised the incident as the largest fire he had encountered during 21 years of service, crediting adrenaline and community spirit for enabling crews to sustain their efforts throughout the extended operation.
Local residents expressed appreciation for the firefighting efforts, with community members providing refreshments, baked goods, and cards of thanks as crews returned from shifts. Lincoln noted the personal significance of the response, given that many firefighters live in the area and felt invested in protecting their local environment from the devastation caused by the wildfire.
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