As an update to the fire situation we are now hearing that it would seem it was started by someone using the age-old method of clearing stubble from their field by burning it off, and it getting out of control.
It appears that there is no limit to stupidity.
Another example we have noticed in our village, and no doubt happens in other areas too, is that with the easing of restrictions regarding the number of people who can gather together for celebrations, parties have returned. Be they wedding, christening, birthday celebrations or whatever, they are invariably accompanied by the letting off of fireworks. This is annoying for more than one reason, firstly because everywhere is so dry that a single spark could set off a fire, and secondly, for fireworks to be effective it needs to be dark so they wait until late, often into the early hours of the morning before setting them off. Being awoken at 1 or 2 in the morning by what sounds like a major gun battle night after night becomes a little infuriating.