FIRE crews from Hexham and Prudhoe were called out to a fire in Prudhoe on Thursday evening.

Just before 7pm, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service were called to a report of a gorse and undergrowth fire cloes to the Spetchells Nature Reserve.

While the fire spread over an area measuring 150 square metres, fire officers said the fire looked more dramatic than it was and the flames were extinguished within 30 minutes.

Northumberland County Councillor for Prudhoe South, Gordon Stewart, said: "The area is enjoyed by many locals and visitors to the area. The incident has caused a lot of upset to residents and I would ask that, if anyone has information regarding this, to contact the police."