DRONE footage has shown the true extent of the devastating fire on Canford Heath.

An area equivalent to 23 international size football pitches was engulfed in flames on Saturday as a heath fire took hold.

READ MORE: Canford Heath fire latest as fire crews on heath all night

Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and all cattle had been moved to a safe area.

Drone footage captured by Matthew Hick, as well as separate footage from Bournemouth News and Pictures Service shows the true effect of the blaze.

READ MORE: Canford Heath fire in Poole latest as houses saved

The footage shows how close the fire came to properties bordering the heath before fire crews were able to contain it and control it.

Fifteen fire engines were on the scene at 9pm on Saturday as crews worked tirelessly to tackle the blaze.

Twenty properties were evacuated as a precaution and Ashdown Leisure Centre was opened as an evacuation centre. The people have since returned home.