Lisnaskea: Tully Forest fire had 'huge impact' on environment

Image caption, The fire at Tully Forest in County Fermanagh was described as "significant" by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service

A gorse fire in County Fermanagh has had a "huge impact" on the environment and wildlife in the area, NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has said.

It said the cause of the fire in Tully Forest, near Lisnaskea, was unknown and an investigation was ongoing.

About 60 firefighters tackled the blaze, which was brought under control on Monday morning.

Firefighters were also called out to a gorse fire on Divis Mountain in Belfast, which has been dealt with.

Ten pumping appliances and two water tankers were called to the Tully Forest fire on Sunday morning.

NIFRS Station Commander Michael Curran said 30 hectares were burnt in the blaze.

He urged the public to be very careful when lighting fires outside.

Image caption, NIFRS station commander Michael Curran said the fire had a huge impact on local wildlife

"If you are lighting barbeques be mindful that a small fire can develop into a large one very, very quickly," he said.

He said these types of incidents were taking "resources out of our towns when we're needed for more serious incidents, such as house fires or road traffic collisions".

An NIFRS spokesperson said people should take extra care outdoors to prevent accidental fires from starting.

They added: "The public are also reminded that deliberate setting of wildfires is a criminal offence and if you see anyone setting a fire you should call the police immediately."