'Large' wildfire closes major road in both directions 

Police Scotland is advising drivers to avoid the area.

Wildfire closes A828 in both directions as firefighters battle blaze iStock

A “large” wildfire has forced the closure of a major road in Argyll and Bute as firefighters battle the blaze.

Emergency services were alerted to the fire near the town of Connel at around 1.20pm on Thursday.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service dispatched four fire engines to the scene near the A828 where crews are working to extinguish the fire which has taken hold of a large section of grass and gorse.

Traffic Scotland confirmed the A828 was closed in both directions.

Police Scotland confirmed that the A85 at Connell Bridge was also closed and advised drivers to avoid the area.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 1.28pm on Thursday, May 2 to reports of a large fire in the open near the town of Connel, Argyll and Bute.

“Operations Control mobilised four fire appliances to the scene, near the A828, where firefighters remain working to extinguish the fire which has taken hold of a large section of grass and gorse.

“There are no reported casualties.”

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “The A85 is closed Connell Bridge due to a wildfire.

“Emergency services are in attendance.

“Please avoid the area. Drivers are urged to use an alternative route.”

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