Date: 1st August, 2026
Time: 09:32
Description: At 9.32am this morning (1st August) firefighters from Westlea, Swindon and Marlborough were called to reports of a fire affecting Haybales on Hackpen Hill. When they arrived crews found approx 250 hay bales alight. Crews are using hose reels to extinguish the fire and farm machinery to create a fire break and prevent fire spread.
Walkers and cyclists are asked to avoid the area while we deal with the incident. Colleagues from Wiltshire Police have also been requested to attend.
Update 1.20pm - crews remain on scene and will do for some time. The public are still asked to please avoid the area.
Update 6.45pm - one crew remains in attendance at this incident and will remain here overnight.
Update 2nd August 7.20am - One fire engine has remained on scene throughout the night. An area of approx 15m x 10m of hay is still alight. The crew are monitoring and trying to prevent fire spread. A crew will remain in attendance through the morning today.
2pm update - The stop came in at 1.49pm today (2 August). Two main lines, three hose reel jets and farm machinery were used to extinguish the fire. The incident was then handed back to the responsible person.
Location: Hackpen Hill, Swindon, UK