Government told to set up Wildlife Recovery Fund after Langdale Moore fire
A senior Tory MP is calling on the Government to set up a dedicated Wildlife Recovery Fund to support those on the frontline of the Langdale Moore fire.
Thirsk and Malton MP Kevin Hollinrake said the massive blaze has “exposed how little support rural communities receive when disaster strikes”.
The North Yorkshire Moors fire burned for more than a month last summer, which was declared a major incident.
The rescue effort of fire crews, farmers and gamekeepers was beset by explosions from World War Two munitions.
The blaze was eventually put out, but not before it had surged towards properties and businesses.
Much of the spectacular scenery near Whitby, Scarborough and Robin Hood’s Bay was turned to ash and dirt.
Mr Hollinrake said: “Farmers, gamekeepers and volunteers acted as first responders, yet were left to bear the financial burden alone.
“I’m calling on the Government to establish a dedicated Wildfire Recovery Fund so those who protect lives and livelihoods aren’t left out of pocket.
“If we truly value our countryside, real support must follow.”
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) previously said it had offered financial assistance to landowners through farming schemes, in response to concerns raised by Scarborough and Whitby MP Alison Hume.
Labour MP Ms Hume said: "Businesses and farmers haven't got access to government compensation in the same way as they would have if they'd been flooded.”
A Defra spokesperson said: “We are taking decisive action to ensure fire services and national bodies can manage and respond to emergencies.
"This includes funding a National Resilience Wildfire Advisor to support a more coordinated response to wildfires, alongside an increase of almost £70m in funding for stand-alone fire and rescue authorities."