Major Achill gorse fire now under control

A MAJOR bog and gorse fire at Saulia, Achill Island, is now under control.

Firemen, backed up by civilian volunteers - many of them carrying shovels - battled throughout the day (Thursday) to stop the fire from spreading.

Six houses were evacuated for a time but the owners and their families are now back home again.

The main reason was health related – fears for the families' health due to smoke pollution.

Mayo County Council has thanked local residents who turned out in large numbers to help fight the oubreak.

Three units of Mayo Fire Brigade have been battling the fire since Wednesday evening.