Emergency crews have urged members of the public to stay away from an “extremely dangerous” large fire on Dartmoor.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has said the huge blaze is near Tavy Cleave, a few miles north east of Tavistock, but have struggled to tackle the blaze due to its location. 

Pictures on social media showed a large stretching blaze which has illuminated the night sky.

Crews remained in place overnight but said they had to wait until daylight returned fully before they were able to assess the situation.

Rob Steemson, Dartmoor National Park emergency officer, told the PA news agency the blaze is estimated to be around three miles wide.

He said it was not clear how or where the fire started, but that “strong” winds were pushing it further across the moorland.

Steemson added that park rangers are in attendance along with the fire service.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said that two 4×4 vehicles are currently undertaking a watching brief from “various vantage points” but that “no significant fire spread” had been identified.

A spokesman for the service said: “Crews remain at the scene, watching and containing the fire.

“We will assess how to proceed when daylight returns, when there is more visibility and firefighting can continue.”

The fire service tweeted overnight that people have arrived nearby to “get a glimpse/photo of the fire”, and pictures have been shared on social media.

“This is extremely dangerous and certainly not an essential journey. Please stay away from the area for your own safety,” it said.

The fire is thought to be on a remote stretch of the moorland and no residents or animals have been injured, according to reports.

It is not yet clear if the fire is controlled. Social media users said the blaze could be seen from parts of Cornwall.