Mourne Mountains fire: Helicopters flown in as fire crews tackle blaze for third day

Emergency services described the fire as the ‘most challenging’ ever faced

Helicopters were flown in to assist fire crews tackling a blaze in Northern Ireland’s Mourne Mountains that was described as “the most challenging” emergency services have ever faced.

The fire in the Slieve Donard area of Co Down, about 30 miles south of Belfast, started in the early hours of Friday.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) declared a major incident on Saturday as flames engulfed the hills behind the picturesque seaside town of Newcastle.

Aidan Jennings, NIFRS's assistant chief fire and rescue officer, said it was "undoubtedly one of the most challenging gorse fires firefighters have ever had to deal with".

At around 6am on Sunday morning, fire crews were back at the scene and supported by police, Coastguard, Mourne Rescue Team, Forestry Service, National Trust, NIEA and Sky Watch Patrol.

Coastguard helicopters from the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain allowed fire chiefs an aerial view of the blaze to help inform tactics, transport personnel to remote locations and plan resources.

NIFRS said in a statement on Sunday afternoon that six fire appliances and 40 firefighters continued battling the blaze. “Significant progress” has been made in bringing it under control, the service added.

In a video statement, Mr Jennings thanked "all of those involved in the rescue effort over the past few days".

"I want to say a huge thanks to the many businesses and individuals who supported the response through providing food and refreshments and encouragement".

On Friday, DUP leader deputy first minister Arlene Foster said: "This is devastating and tragic. The impact on wildlife and flora is unimaginable. Full support to those battling the flames."

Sinn Fein vice president and deputy first minister Michelle O'Neill voiced "huge admiration" for the firefighters and all responders.

No injuries or deaths have been reported as a result of the fire and it is unclear at this stage what sparked the blaze. Members of the public are being urged to avoid the area.