FIREFIGHTERS have been tackling a gorse bush fire off Southbourne Overcliff Drive tonight. Two appliances attended and the small blaze, which began at 7.35pm, was extinguished in 25 minutes.

It is believed arsonists torched the area of heath.

A Dorset Fire and Rescue spokesperson said they received more than 30 calls about the blaze, which was put out using one hose reel jet.