Firefighters board a ferry to tackle blaze on island

FIREFIGHTERS tackled a wildfire blaze on a remote island using a lifeboat and ferry.

FIREFIGHTERS tackled a wildfire blaze on a remote island using a lifeboat and ferry.

The heather and scrub fire was burning over a mile stretch on the popular tourist spot of Tanera Mor in the Summer Isles.

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Sixteen firefighters travelled to the blaze when it broke out on Thursday and another three crews returned yesterday in Lochinver lifeboat. Three others crossed from the mainland on the ferry.

It is believed a beach fire was ignited by tourists and the blaze got out of hand and spread to nearby heathland. Deputy chief fire officer Stewart Edgar said he had been impressed by the actions of the fire crews.

Mr Edgar said: “The uniqueness of this incident goes without saying. Our control staff put well rehearsed emergency procedures in place and our firefighters did an excellent job of bringing the fire under control.”

Tanera Mor has two permanent residents who own the island and are regularly joined by holidaymakers.

A spokeswoman for Highlands and Island Fire and Rescue Service said they have dealt with 220 wildfires since 21 March.