Upton Heath

[3] Much of the area has been designated as the Upton Heath Nature Reserve and is largely managed by the Dorset Wildlife Trust.

In addition, the boggy areas support many dragonfly species as well as carnivorous round-leaved sundew and raft spiders.

[6] Local people had to evacuate their homes and 200 firefighters were engaged as the fire spread rapidly over a square kilometre.

Two men believed to be responsible for starting the fire were being sought by police and the Crimestoppers offered a reward.

[7][8][9] In the aftermath of the Upton Heath Fire, an organisation called Heathwatch was formed with local people volunteering to act as wardens.