AN investigation into a heath fire that is believed to have been started “maliciously” in St Leonards is under way.

Firefighters were called to Oakdene Woods on Friday at around 11.10am.

A crew from Ferndown attended and a light off-road vehicle was also requested.

A spokesman for Dorset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews got to work with beaters and aquapacks, backpacks containing water, to extinguish the fire that is believed to have been started maliciously.”

Police were advised of the incident and fire crews left the scene at around 11.50am after making the area safe.

A Dorset Police spokesman added: “The fire service reported it had been caused deliberately.

“Dorset Police are investigating and are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to call 101 quoting incident number 6:140.”