FIREFIGHTERS from Buckfastleigh are among 10 crews battling a major gorse fire on Dartmoor.

The alarm was raised at lunchtime today (Tuesday) that an area of land towards the A386 was affected by fire.

The road has now been closed and Devon County Council has declared a major incident, advising motorists to avoid the area.

Crews are tackling the fire on several fronts using beaters and hose reel jets in a bid to stop it escalating.

Ten crews are on the scene along with a special appliance.

A spokesman for Devon County Council said reports had been received of the fire between Roborough and Yelverton.

They said: ‘Avoid the area and expect delays.

‘Smoke may impact on driving due to reduced visibility in the vicinity.

‘Diversions are in place.’

Police officers are also at the scene.