Fire service thanks farmers for wildfires support

Farmers and rural communities have been praised for helping firefighters contain wildfires across Leicestershire this summer, with tractors, bowsers and local knowledge playing a key role in the emergency response.

Callum Faint, chief fire and rescue officer at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said the service could not have achieved its outcomes without the “extraordinary support” of farming and rural communities.

See also: UK unprepared for worsening wildfires, MPs warn

In an open letter to farmers, landowners and rural residents, Mr Faint thanked those who brought machinery and water bowsers, ploughed fields, created firebreaks and helped move equipment and personnel across difficult terrain.

He added that this support had helped crews reach areas where conventional fire service access was difficult and had contributed to containing fires and restricting their spread.

The service’s debriefs following the summer’s incidents highlighted the importance of that support, he said.

Despite serious wildfire impacts elsewhere in the country, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland avoided injuries and significant property loss during the incidents it faced.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 23 wildfire incidents between 1 January and 27 August 2026, under its local definition of grassland, woodland and crop fires covering more than 10,000sq m or requiring at least four fire engines.

1,300 wildfires nationwide

Fire and rescue crews attended more than 1,300 wildfires across England and Wales in 2026. One serious wildfire in Stourbridge in the West Midlands required more than 50 vehicles.

Mr Faint said the contribution of farmers was more than an addition to the firefighting operation, with practical help forming an important part of the service’s ability to bring incidents under control.

He also recognised the work of firefighters and control room staff, and said the service would continue working with rural communities to improve preparedness for future periods of extreme wildfire risk.

Gamekeepers vital too

Rural groups have also highlighted the role of gamekeepers, whose knowledge of land management and fuel loads can support farmers and emergency services.

Sarah Lee, director of policy and campaigns at the Countryside Alliance, said: “Wildfires have been a huge issue throughout the country this summer, and rural communities have played a vital role in assisting the valiant work our daring firefighters have carried out to keep us safe and protect lives, livelihoods and wildlife.

“The successes in battling wildfires this summer are a testament to the invaluable role that rural communities, farmers and gamekeepers play in preserving and protecting our Great British countryside.”

The open letter comes as the government develops a national approach to wildfire resilience following a summer of severe fires.

The government’s October Wildfire Summit announced plans to equip RAF Chinook helicopters and A400M aircraft for aerial firefighting, alongside investment in specialist teams, protective equipment and peatland restoration.