Tuesday 28 July 2009

THE FIRST CROP FIRE IN THANET THIS YEAR?


A crop fire in wheat growing between Broadley Rd in Millmead and Northdown Hill was started this afternoon at about 4.30pm. I am glad to report it has been put out.
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When I left the scene Kent Fire Brigade were still monitoring the situation to ensure no further flare ups ocurred from any hot-spots. The gusting wind and predominantly stiff westerly breeze meant that not only was the fire moving quickly but jumping, with flare-ups being started by hot embers blown down wind. The gusting shifts in wind direction were hazardous to fire-fighters beating the fire down from behind the fire-line as the fire was blown back on them. Not a nice job.
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I suspect that either a carelessly thrown cigarette or deliberate arson was the cause. Farming on the urban fringe, as most farmers do in Thanet, can be a soul-less task with litter, fly-tipping, car-burning, 4x4 offroading, moto-cross and arson of barns or ricks being a regular feature. Many ignorant Thanetonians seem unaware that plants growing in fields are 'food' and represent hard-work and investment to make a return.
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The dry weather in June has lead to early ripening wheat and barley that will need to stand until potato crops are gathered. A ripe field can dry out quickly in stiff breezes on a sunny day like today and I suspect this will not be the last crop fire this harvest season.

6 comments:

Jimmy said...

I do like a nice fire.

Anonymous said...

That is the trouble when living nextdoor to scroats, your lively hood gets trashed

Bertie Biggles said...

So do I, Jimmy but in a grate behind a fire-guard! Sadly, there have been too many fires for you to enjoy in Thanet!

Anonymous said...

The fires in Panama are even bigger because the weather is hotter.
The burning question is will Cllr Broadhurst resign and why does his party put up with his staying abroad.?

Don Wood said...

Shame people dont understand but I blame the parents

Bertie Biggles said...

Don, right here I am afraid!

Nice one 17.28! The smoothest comment to change topic I have seen. Well done. I am leaving Tony Flaig and local press to await a 'press release' from 'Our Leader' concerning Cllr Broadhurst's peripatetic wanderings anywhere but near the ward he is meant to represent, Dane Valley.