SWIFT action by firefighters, and farmers being well-prepared with firefighting equipment in the field in which they were working, helped prevent a more serious fire this afternoon, Friday, August 14.

Three fire appliances rushed to the field where wildflower mix was being cut for harvesting.

It is believed a spark from the harvester striking a stone caused the fire.

The farmer, Ross Friend, of Eastacott Farm, was praised by firefighters for having firefighting equipment on the scene and this and the swift action of workers helped to control the blaze until fire crews arrived.

There was a strong breeze across the hilltop field and the crops were tinder-dry.

Ross’s wife Siobhan, who controlled traffic on the Whitestone to Crediton road while firefighters were at the scene, thanked the firefighters and all who helped.

On Sunday, August 9, seven fire crews fought a field fire at Little Harford, near Venny Tedburn.

Rachel Samuel ofLittle Harford wrote on social media, afterwards: “A heartfelt thank you

“I would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to all of our wonderful neighbours and the fire crews who worked so tirelessly on Sunday 9th August when the fire broke out in the nearby field close to Little Harford, near Venny Tedburn.

“The situation was incredibly frightening, but thanks to your quick response, determination and sheer hard work, our property and campsite were saved. I honestly cannot put into words how grateful I am to every single person who helped, stood by us, fought the fire and did everything possible to keep our property safe.

“Your bravery, kindness and community spirit meant more to us than you will ever know.

“A special thank you to the seven incredible fire crews (Crediton, Middlemoor, Danes Castle Exeter, Okehampton, Moretonhampstead, Bovey Tracey and Barnstaple) who went above and beyond to protect us and our property, and particularly to neighbours Nathan Gillard, James Sanford, Marc Coles and to George Mortimer for bringing the slurry spreader of water.

“A huge thank you particularly to Crediton Fire Service, who stayed until 2am monitoring the situation and making sure we were safe.

“To every neighbour, firefighter and person who helped — thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are incredibly fortunate to have such an amazing community around us.

“We will never forget what you did for us on Sunday.”