PLUMES of smoke hung in the air over Wroughton yesterday as a farmer burned 30 bales of hay.

Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service were called out to the scene by a member of the public who thought that smoke was coming from an accidental fire.

An appliance from Swindon went to the scene but was stood down when firefighters realised what was happening.

A spokeswoman for Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Services said: “Although this was a false alarm, there was an actual fire and the person who called was right to do so.

“This was a good intentioned caller who did not realise that the farmer was burning his hay in a controlled manner.

“We would always urge members of the public to contact us if they see a fire or are concerned if they see smoke.”

The bales of hay were in a field in Overtown, just off Brimble Hill in Wroughton, and the fires were lit early yesterday morning.

The process of burning bales of hay is widely regarded as the quickest and easiest way for a farmer to get rid of unwanted hay.

Under the right conditions, the bales can sometimes produce enough interior heat to self-combust.

Farmers must follow stringent safety guidelines to make sure the fires are controlled and have water at the ready should the fire begin to spread.