FIREFIGHTERS from Wellington were sent on a 180-mile round trip to join a three-day battle against an ‘out of control’ landfill inferno.

Local crews were called upon to assist fire crews from Dorset and Wiltshire as they fought to contain a two-and-a-half acre ‘mountain’ of rubbish which had gone up in flames in Calne, Wiltshire.

The fire broke out on the evening of Sunday, June 9, with crews from Calne, Chippenham, Devizes, Marlborough, Corsham, Royal Wootton Bassett and Salisbury sending 30 fire fighters to the scene.

The pluming smoke was so severe fire brigade officials advised local residents to keep their windows closed as they struggled to contain the blaze.

Crews from Wellington joined their colleagues through the night as they attempted to dampen down the flames with their high volume pump.

The fire was not extinguished until Wednesday, June 12, when smoke was still rising from the burnt-out rubbish heap - and control of the scene was handed to the site operator.

Fire fighters fought to contain the flames as they spread across the more than 2-acre site
Fire fighters fought to contain the flames as they spread across the more than 2-acre site (Fire Service)

Issuing a statement after the fire had been overcome, a spokesperson for Calne Fire Station said: “On Sunday evening we were mobilised to a fire in Compton Bassett. fire control took multiple calls and mobilised further resources from Devizes Fire Station and Chippenham Fire Station.

“On our way a large plume of smoke was seen so a water carrier was requested from Royal Wootton Bassett Fire Station. Once in attendance we were faced with a large area of landfill well alight and spreading rapidly.

“Further assistance was requested with fire engines from Corsham Fire Station, Marlborough Fire Station and support vehicles from Salisbury Fire Station and Swindon Fire Station.

“Due to the remote location a high volume pump was requested from Christchurch Fire Station.

“Relief crews came from across both counties of DWFireRescue. Thanks to Rapid Relief Team UK for providing much needed refreshments on Sunday night.”

Wellington residents took to social media to send their well wishes to local fire fighters who travelled to tackle the blaze.

The landfill site operator could not be reached for comment.

The cause of the fire remains clear.