Thank you to everyone who reported the fire that started at around 2.47pm yesterday (11th August) at Mincinglake Valley Park in Exeter. This Park is managed by Devon Wildlife Trust on behalf of Exeter City Council. We are incredibly grateful for the quick response of the emergency services, who worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control. We are also grateful for the efforts of Devon Wildlife Trust staff, who remained on site to assist the emergency services.
We would ask the public to keep away from the site for the time being and to remain vigilant as the risk of wildfires is still very high.
We believe that the fire affected about 50 acres of habitat and Trust staff believe it is likely to have damaged fencing and other site infrastructure. No livestock was on site at the time of the fire, and no housing was damaged.
Mincinglake Valley Park is home to a range of common and less common wildlife including many plants, songbirds, field voles, butterflies and moths. Matt Boydell, Devon Wildlife Trust Land Manager, has been on site and described the damage as “extensive”. Over the coming days and weeks our Reserves Team will be assessing the impact and identifying how we can support wildlife’s recovery.
At its height 20 fire appliances, a water bowser and other specialist equipment attended the scene which was categorised as a major incident by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. This morning (12th August) fire crews are on site monitoring the situation and dampening down any hot spots.
How you can help protect wildlife from wildfires:
- BBQ at home, not in the countryside
- Never light campfires or other open fires
- Take all litter home, especially cigarette ends and glass bottles
- If you spot a wildfire, call 999 immediately and give the exact location
You can also support our work for wildlife. Every donation helps us care for and restore precious habitats and protect the wildlife that depends on them.
Thank you for taking extra care when visiting our nature reserves and other wild places!
