Major incident declared as fires rage across Stourbridge and Warwickshire in the West Midlands

Residents across the West Midlands have been advised to stay inside as firefighters tackle two major blazes in the region.

West Midlands Fire Service reported “extreme levels of demand” caused by a severe incident in Stourbridge.

Drone video shared by the service showed a thermal map of flames threatening nearby homes as heavy smoke drifted over the town.

Stourbridge town hall has now opened as a rescue centre for displaced residents.

In a statement on its incidents page, West Midlands Fire Service said: “Around 60 firefighters are tackling an extensive grass fire near Stourbridge golf course, in the Racecourse Lane area.

“We were first alerted to it just before 1.30pm on Thursday.

“Flames are spreading across roads in places. Please avoid the area.

“If smoke is affecting your home or workplace, keep doors and windows closed as a precaution.

“There are currently no reported casualties.”

Meanwhile, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service said they are responding to a “large fire” in Salford Priors, Stratford-on-Avon. It urged residents in the area to close all doors and windows.

Police, fire crews and ambulances are at the scene of the wildfire which has been declared a major incident.

Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service were called at 2.30pm on Thursday to reports of a large plume of smoke on Tothall Lane, Salford Priors in Stratford-on-Avon.

The fire service said: “On arrival crews discovered a wildfire which was spreading to nearby out-buildings.

“There are currently 10 appliances in attendance. This incident has been declared a major incident.

“We would like to express that there is a large emergency presence in the area and we continue to advise residents nearby to close all doors and windows.

“Please stay away from the area. Our control room is receiving a large number of calls, so please contact us only in a genuine emergency.

“It’s imperative that residents take all steps to reduce any fire risk. Please read advice on our social media channels about fire and water safety.

“West Midlands Ambulance Service and Warwickshire Police are also on scene.”

More to follow…