UPDATE: Main body of significant Formby dunes fire now extinguished

Firefighters have brought the main body of a significant fire on the Formby dunes under control tonight, following a major response involving six fire engines.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/fc350e_dcb91edb7cfe49748f310af4319bccea/file

Video of the Fires from Lifeboat Road Car Park

Merseysyside Fire and Rescue Service was called to the Albert Road area at around 8pm after a fire took hold in gorse across an area reported to measure approximately 300 metres by 300 metres.

The blaze could be seen from miles away, with dramatic flames spreading across the dunes and thick smoke rising high into the sky.

The blaze could be seen from Crosby beach

In an update issued at around 10.15pm, the Fire Service confirmed that the main body of the fire had been extinguished.

Fire crews remain at the scene tonight checking the affected area for hot spots and ensuring there is no further spread.

This has been a significant incident on an extremely dry and vulnerable part of our coastline, and a huge thank you must go to all of the firefighters and emergency crews who have worked to bring the blaze under control.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service continues to list the Formby dunes and gorse fire as an ongoing incident tonight. (merseyfire.gov.uk)

We will bring you any further updates as they are confirmed.