Police and fire service to carry out joint investigation into Perthshire straw blaze

A major Perthshire blaze that caused thousands of pounds worth of damage and endangered drivers is under investigation by police.

Huge plumes of smoke billowed across the A984 as the flames took hold of more than 150 bales of straw at Gourdie Farm.

Two crews from Blairgowrie battled the fire near Murthly for more than four hours with the road closed by police due to the “likelihood of danger”.

Scottish Fire and Rescue group manager Billy McLintock said the flames could have spread to a nearby tree plantation.

A joint inquiries investigation to establish the cause of the fire is now underway.

The incident in the early hours of yesterday morning follows another serious fire at a Bridge of Earn farm which cost around £10,000.

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