Flames from hilltop beacon sparked large fire which broke out in Alnmouth on Christmas Eve

The blaze caused extensive damage to the Bracken Hill area bordering Alnmouth Village golf course.

Graeme Binning, Chief Fire Officer at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said: “Our firefighters were called to a fire on Bracken Hill in Alnmouth just after 6pm on Christmas Eve.

"It has been confirmed that the fire started following the tradition of lighting one of the beacons at the top of the hill. The fire then quickly spread to the nearby grass and trees due to the very high winds.

"Four fire appliances, a fogging unit and two officers attended the scene. Firefighters were working in challenging conditions due to the strong winds, but the fire was brought under control as quickly as possible.

"We recognise the important tradition of lighting the beacons and other celebrations during the festive period but advise people to take care, and to carry out an assessment of any site beforehand. The assessment should consider a range of risk factors including high winds.

“Following this incident, we will be working in partnership with our local communities to review the risk assessments and decision-making protocols when lighting the beacons.

“Finally, can I please thank our firefighters, officers and control room staff who responded to this incident, and who were working in challenging conditions due to very high winds."

Video supplied by Lyn Marie Douglas.