AN out of control bonfire on the outskirts of Newton Abbot saw the town’s fire crew mobilised on Friday.

The crew saw action in the afternoon after being called to an area off the A382.

The fire had spread to nearby brush and vegetation that was burning close to both a property and a gas distribution installation.

‘The burning vegetation was also producing a large quantity of smoke across the carriageway making driving conditions challenging’, a spokesperson for Newton Abbot Fire Station said.

Two hose reel jets and beaters were used to tame the fire.

A spokesperson for Newton Abbot Fire Station said: ‘We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that although sometimes it may seem necessary to have a bonfire, please ensure you do so in a safe manner.

‘Ensure the surround area is clear, always have water at the ready just in case and also make sure the bonfire is attended.

‘Although the fire was only a small escalation today, it had the potential to be much worse’.