Firefighters tackle large agricultural blaze near Scarcliffe
Emergency services are responding to a major field fire on the Derbyshire–Nottinghamshire border, with smoke visible for miles across Bolsover and Mansfield. Crews were mobilised shortly before 17:00 BST on Monday to agricultural land in the Scarcliffe area, where several fields are alight.
Residents nearby have been told to stay away from the scene, keep windows and doors closed, and to avoid any attempt to reach the fire ground. Fire authorities have also warned against the use of drones over the incident because they can hinder aircraft and operational activity.
Joint response with 10 engines at the scene
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) confirmed a coordinated response with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS), deploying a substantial number of crews as the fire spreads across multiple fields. In a statement, NFRS said:
"We're working side by side with our colleagues at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service at a fire on the border of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in Scarcliffe, following a call at 4.46pm. This is a number of fields on fire and we have a smoke plume that can be seen from as far away as Mansfield. Do not panic - we have 10 fire engines between us tackling this blaze and crews are working hard to get this dealt with as soon as possible."
Flames have been reported as visible from some distance, and drifting smoke has prompted advice to limit exposure, particularly for people with respiratory conditions. Images captured by residents show a dark plume rising above the rural landscape.
Service under pressure amid ongoing moorland fire
DFRS has been managing sustained demand in recent weeks because of the large, long-running wildfire at Tintwistle Moor near Glossop. That separate incident, which began nearly three weeks ago, has required extended firefighting operations and support from partner agencies, leaving crews stretched across the county as they respond to new outbreaks.
While the cause of the Scarcliffe fire has not been stated, field and grassland fires can escalate rapidly in warm, dry or windy conditions. Fire services typically advise taking extra care in the countryside to reduce ignition risks, such as disposing of cigarettes responsibly, not using barbecues on open land unless permitted, and removing litter like glass that can concentrate sunlight.
Public safety and travel considerations
Members of the public are asked to respect cordons and follow instructions from firefighters and police at the scene. Those living or working within the smoke plume should keep indoor air as clean as possible by closing windows and ventilation intakes until conditions improve. Motorists are urged to drive with caution if smoke reduces visibility on nearby routes and to avoid pulling over in locations that could obstruct emergency access.
- Stay clear of the fire area and follow official diversion routes.
- Keep windows and doors closed if smoke is affecting your property.
- Do not fly drones over the incident; they endanger emergency operations.
What we know so far
| Location | Scarcliffe area, on the Derbyshire–Nottinghamshire border |
|---|---|
| Call time | 16:46 BST on Monday |
| Agencies | Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service; Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service |
| Scale | Multiple fields affected; smoke seen from Mansfield and Bolsover |
| Response | 10 fire engines jointly deployed |
| Public advice | Avoid the area; keep windows closed; do not use drones |
Residents can follow updates from NFRS and DFRS via their official channels for the latest information on the incident and any extended safety advice. Anyone who believes they are in immediate danger should call 999 and ask for the fire service.
