Warnings have been issued about wildfires in Moray amid fears there could be more blazes throughout the summer.
More than 30 firefighters continued to battle flames in Hopeman in the early hours of yesterday morning after gorse caught light.
Crews were at the scene for more than seven hours as homes came within yards of becoming engulfed by the “challenging” incident.
Houses were evacuated as a precaution as the fire was fanned by the wind but no injuries were reported as a result of the emergency, which came after several days of warm weather.
However, an area of coastline stretching more than 250 yards has been reduced to cinders after being scorched by the flames.
Yesterday, incident commander David Scott said the blaze initially proved difficult to control due to the dry vegetation.
He said: “This was undoubtedly a large and challenging fire, and one that developed rapidly as a result of high winds and the volume of dry gorse.
“But decisive action ensured that the fire was extinguished and the scene secured, while preventing damage to nearby homes and beach huts.”
Crews were called shortly after 8pm on Tuesday and remained at the scene until 3.30am yesterday. Fire officers then returned later in the day to check the area and offer reassurance to locals.
Last year, a major fire on grassland in the neighbouring Covesea Links area near Lossiemouth threatened to destroyed a cafe and caravan park.
Heldon and Laich councillor James Allan stressed residents and walkers on the coastline must take extra care during the summer months to prevent grass fires.
He said: “When it’s dry people certainly need to be more careful. We had a big one in Lossiemouth last year which showed how easily things can escalate.
“The beaches are very popular with people lighting camp fires and barbecues at this time of year so it’s important to keep an eye on them.”
Video credit: Adam Govier