Devastation at Dunwich
COUNCIL RELEASES FIRE IMAGES …
As HM Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Mark Pendlington, offers his views on last week’s fire at Dunwich Heath, Suffolk County Council and the Fire Service have released disturbing images showing the widespread devastation.
The photos depict near apocalyptic scenes of the county’s once beautiful nature reserve - home to several rare bird species.
In his statement, Mark Pendlington, thanked the emergency services who worked tirelessly in heartbreaking and challenging conditions.
“Their professionalism, courage and determination have been nothing short of remarkable,” he said.
“I also want to pay tribute to the people of Westleton and the surrounding communities, who have come together in an extraordinary way to support those affected. The kindness, compassion and practical help shown to neighbours, visitors and emergency responders alike demonstrates the very best of Suffolk.
“This response has been a true team effort. I would like to thank officers from Suffolk's county and district councils, The National Trust, RSPB Minsmere and the many other organisations and agencies that have provided support, resources and expertise throughout this incident. Their willingness to work together has been inspirational.
“While efforts continue to extinguish the fire, the effects of this incident will be felt for some time. Yet amid the devastation, we have seen the strength, resilience and generosity that define our county. Suffolk owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to everyone who has played a part in protecting people, property and one of our most treasured landscapes. As HM Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, thank you to everyone involved.”
These images show the sheer extent of the loss of natural habitat for which the area is known and loved.
But talking on the BBC Radio’s Five Live, Andy Beer, the National Trust's chief operating officer, said despite extensive damage to the healthland, there are glimmers of hope.
"One of our team who was on site [on Saturday], was still observing signs of life already in and amongst the burnt landscape, so we hope some of the species who live there will have managed to escape. Obviously, we would have lost many things, but we hope in the spring next year we will see where we are in the terms of recovery ... but it is a bit too early to tell for that. We have faith in nature's dealings in these problems."
