Charlotte Albutt

A surge in 999 calls during major wildfires has put emergency services in Worcestershire and the West Midlands under pressure. Fire and rescue officials urged residents to call only when they could see flames, as shifting winds spread smoke. The Stourbridge fire caused extensive damage, forced residents from their homes and left six people treated at the scene, with two hospitalised for smoke inhalation. The cause remains under investigation, while cooler temperatures are expected but little rain is forecast.