Tent fire destroys part of music festival site

Part of a music festival site has been destroyed by a fire that started when a camping stove set fire to a tent.

Fire crews were called to the Rustic Stomp festival near Wareham, Dorset, at about 19:40 BST on Friday evening. Firefighters said an area of heathland measuring 100m (330ft) by 40m (130ft) was destroyed.

Festival-goers quickly moved tents and vehicles to safety as the flames took over, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) said.

The festival said everyone was safe and reminded campers not to light fires or use barbecues, cheap gas stoves or burners on site. warned everyone against the use of any camping stoves, open fires or barbecues while "conditions are so dry".

Video posted online showed large flames and thick black smoke in bushes and gorse near a camping field.

The fire service said one person was treated for slight smoke inhalation, and declared the incident over at about 23:20 BST.

DWFRS thanked farmers for drenching the land to stop the fire spreading.

In a Facebook post, Rustic Stomp said: "About yesterday... Firstly, everyone is safe, and that's what matters most.

"A huge thank you to the Fire Service, Police, Ambulance crews, and the local farmers who responded so quickly and helped bring the situation under control.

"We can't thank you enough.

"We're also incredibly proud of our amazing Rustic Stomp family. So many of you stepped up with calm, quick thinking and decisive action to help reduce the danger while the emergency services were on their way."

The festival said it was continuing on Saturday as planned.