Firefighters still trying to put out huge overnight blaze
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) were called to the scene on Park Lane, Shapwick, at 11.27pm on Thursday, August 1, following reports of a fire involving a barn.
Initial response teams from Wimborne, Blandford and Poole attended the blaze, supported by a water carrier from Poole.
Firefighters worked through the night using two main lines and a hose reel jet to prevent the fire from spreading further.
It is reported that at 3.00am, the incident was scaled back, with a relief crew from Christchurch taking over.
A support vehicle from Ferndown and a lightweight off-road vehicle from Blandford also joined the effort.
(Image: Large Barn Fire, Credit: DWFRS)
A spokesperson from DWFRS said: 'Firefighters are still currently in attendance and are working hard to extinguish the fire. Local residents have been advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke in the area.'
Thick smoke from the blaze has been reported in surrounding areas including Sturminster Marshall, Canford Heath, and Corfe Mullen.
Authorities have also issued a public health warning due to concerns about possible asbestos-containing materials involved in the fire.
Posting on Facebook, DWFRS said: 'Please be aware that the smoke can be seen in areas of Sturminster Marshall and the Corfe Mullen area.
'Local residents are advised to please keep windows and doors closed due to the potential of asbesto-based materials from the building involved.'
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