Helicopter called in as crews battle forest fire

A helicopter was called in to help firefighters tackle a large wildfire which broke out in West Lothian.

Crews were still trying to extinguish the flames in a forest near Fauldhouse on Saturday evening, after being called to the scene at midday.

The fire service had earlier warned of an “extreme” risk of wildfires due to the warm, dry weather.

Around 50 firefighters battled to bring the wildfire under control, with the helicopter being used to drop water on the affected area.

Those living nearby were urged to keep their windows and doors closed due to the smoke.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were alerted at 11.43am on Saturday 10 May to reports of a large outdoor fire affecting a remote area of forest near Fauldhouse.

“Operations control currently has nine appliances at the scene, as well as a high volume pump, all-terrain vehicle and a water bowser.

“Firefighters will continue to work to extinguish the fire.”

Police have urged people to avoid the area as emergency services deal with the fire.