FIREFIGHTERS remain at the scene of a huge fire in Wareham Forest.

Visibility in the area is poor due to increased smoke and fog and residents are being urged to keep their doors and windows closed.

Around 50 firefighters remained at the scene overnight but Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said this would be scaled back up during the day.

A spokesperson said: "The fire is under control but with so many hotspots we expect to be on scene for a couple of days yet.

"We are urging walkers and cyclists to avoid the area as there are still lots of fire engines and five miles of hose laid out.

"We’d like to say thank you to everyone for their patience so far, but hotspots can flare up with little to no warning so PLEASE help us by staying away."

Billowing smoke was seen for several miles as the fire took hold on Monday afternoon.

Police are now working with the fire service to investigate the cause of the blaze, in the area of Sugar Hill.

Forestry England, which manages the woodland, has estimated a massive 180-hectares has been affected in the wildfire.

At the height of the fire there were around 30 fire appliances in attendance.

Road closures on the A35 have been lifted but closures remain in place on Bere Road and at Sugar Hill.

Information to Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55200070290, or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.