A sharp rise in wildfires across Worksop has prompted Nottinghamshire emergency services and local authorities to issue an urgent plea for public vigilance.

Over the past week, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has attended 16 separate fires in the open, with six incidents occurring on Monday, 12 May alone. The fires have damaged parks, hedgerows, and newly installed play equipment, leaving communities reeling and authorities calling for action.

Monday’s Wildfire Surge

Among the most serious incidents on 12 May:

• At 4:55pm, crews from Edwinstowe and Tuxford were dispatched to Rayton Farm Lane, where 30 square metres of grass and 400 metres of hedgerow were ablaze.
• At 6:15pm, firefighters tackled two burning trees on Ambleside Grange, followed by a woodland rubbish fire at Curzon Drive just 15 minutes later.
• At 7:35pm, an unattended bonfire was reported at Hannah Park on Netherton Road.
• By 8:30pm, crews from Harworth, Worksop, and Edwinstowe responded to a rubber matting fire in a park area, which began to spread toward nearby trees.

Authorities Respond

Bassetlaw District Manager Adrian Brizzolara warned that dry and warm conditions have created an environment where fires can ignite and spread with ease.

“Wildfires can spread rapidly, which we’ve seen in Worksop. Even a small spark can turn into a large fire within minutes,” he said. “We urge residents to avoid careless behaviour, especially open fires, and to report any suspicious activity immediately.”

The emergency services are promoting the use of the What3Words app to help pinpoint fire locations more effectively.

Vandalism Destroys New Play Equipment

One particularly distressing incident occurred at Prospect Park, where newly installed climbing blocks — worth over £6,200 — were completely destroyed by fire, believed to have been started deliberately.

Cllr Darrell Pulk, Cabinet Member for Environment and Energy at Bassetlaw District Council, said:

“We are extremely shocked and disappointed. This mindless act has robbed children of a valuable community asset. Our funds are limited, and it’s heart-breaking to see resources destroyed like this.”

He praised Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue for their swift response, preventing further damage, and urged anyone with information to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101.

Ongoing Investigation

The fires are being jointly investigated by Nottinghamshire Police, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Bassetlaw District Council, who are working to monitor fire-prone areas, educate the public, and prevent further incidents.