Firefighters battle wildfire overnight amid 'extreme' alert

Firefighters remain at the scene of a wildfire in North Lanarkshire as an “extreme” alert continues across Scotland.

Emergency services were called to the scene in the Springhill and Leadloch Road areas outside Shotts at around 4pm on Sunday.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service dispatched six fire engines to the scene with more than 30 firefighters involved at the height of the incident.

SFRS confirmed that two appliances remained at the scene on Monday morning.

Although smoke levels have reduced this morning residents in nearby areas have been urged to reamin vigilant and continue to keep doors and windows closed.

It comes as an “extreme” alert for wildfires is in place until May 19, as Scotland continues to see dry and warm weather.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Two fire appliances remain at the scene this morning, Monday, May 19, to tackle small pockets of fire following a wildfire in Shotts, North Lanarkshire.

“At its height, more than 30 firefighters and six appliances were mobilised to Springhill and Leadloch Road on Sunday evening.

“Crews worked tirelessly to contain a wildfire measuring approximately 400m in length.

“Due to high winds, smoke travelled across the wider Shotts village and towards nearby towns of Motherwell, Wishaw and Newmains, and residents were asked to keep windows and doors shut.

“Smoke levels have reduced this morning, however, residents in nearby areas should remain vigilant and if smoke was visible, continue to keep doors and windows closed.”