Firefighters Battle Extensive Grass Blaze Near Stourbridge, Homes Evacuated

What Happened

A large grass fire broke out near Stourbridge Golf Course on Thursday afternoon, prompting a significant response from emergency services. Around 60 firefighters were deployed to the scene, where flames were observed spreading across roads in some areas.

Residents in the vicinity were advised to close their doors and windows due to smoke, and some homes were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The fire service reported that there were no casualties.

Background

The fire was reported to have started around 13:00 BST, with thick smoke visible for several miles, reaching areas like Dudley and Wollaston. Eyewitnesses described hearing loud explosions and cracking sounds, along with dense smoke filling the air.

In a separate but related incident on the same day, West Midlands Police reported fires in multiple locations across the West Midlands, including Clayhanger Common, where nearby residents were evacuated. The fire at Clayhanger Common was approximately 200 square meters, affecting about half of a 70-acre field.

Key Facts

• Approximately 60 firefighters are tackling an extensive grass fire near Stourbridge Golf Course.
• Flames have spread across roads in some locations.
• Several road closures are in place, with police assisting with traffic management.
• Residents have been advised to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke.
• Some homes were evacuated as a precaution.
• There have been no reported casualties from the Stourbridge fire.
• Smoke from the fire was visible as far as Dudley.
• A separate large fire occurred at Clayhanger Common, leading to the evacuation of 15 homes which residents later returned to.
• Fires were also reported in Tipton, Coventry, Dudley, and Kings Norton.
• The Clayhanger Common fire affected about half of a 70-acre field.