Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a large wildfire at Dunwich Heath shortly after 5.30pm yesterday (29 July).
The Ship at Dunwich said it had taken the decision to close today (30 July) to protect staff and guests while emergency services remain in the area.
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A spokesperson for the pub said: “Due to the wildfire on Dunwich Heath, we have made the decision to close today to ensure team and guest safety while emergency services continue to work in the area.
“Our guests have been contacted directly. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Most importantly, we hope everyone working to tackle the fire stays safe.”
Pub, bar and nightclub operators were recently urged to review fire safety procedures following a deadly blaze at a Bangkok venue.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has also urged the public to avoid Dunwich Beach and the surrounding area while the incident continues, warning that roads must be kept clear for emergency services.
The service said a major incident remained in place today, with the fire covering around 100 hectares and 18 fire engines and supporting resources at the scene.
Residents and visitors have been urged to avoid the area, while those affected by smoke have been advised to keep windows and doors closed where possible.
Extreme conditions
The incident comes as large parts of England continue to face drought conditions following record low rainfall and exceptionally high temperatures.
The Environment Agency confirmed yesterday (29 July) half of England had been declared in drought, with seven areas officially affected, including East Anglia.
The agency said central, eastern and southern England were experiencing a “flash drought”, with rivers running low, farmers harvesting crops early and wildfire risk increasing.
Met Office data also showed the UK recorded 111.7mm of rainfall between 1 June and 26 July, including just 21.3mm from 1 to 26 July.
The heat has already affected hospitality trading this summer, with previous research showing bookings fell 48% during recent heatwaves, while covers dropped 19% and walk-ins decreased 11%.
Operators have also adapted opening hours, closed kitchens and cancelled events during periods of extreme heat to protect staff and maintain service standards.:
- Update, 31 July:
Fire crews have entered a third day of tackling the Dunwich Heath wildfire, with Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service saying the blaze is “stabilising” but not yet under control.
The fire is now estimated to cover around 150 hectares, equivalent to about 200 football pitches, with around 100 firefighters remaining at the scene.
Suffolk’s deputy chief fire officer Henry Griffin said crews had the resources and plans in place to mitigate the risk, but were continuing to monitor fire fronts, wind direction and the risk of re ignition.
The National Trust has warned the impact on Dunwich Heath is likely to be “total devastation”, with countryside manager Matt Wilson telling the BBC: “From the images we’ve seen so far, everything has burnt.”
