Fire crews tackling the blaze in Mansfield were attacked with golf balls

Firefighters were pelted with golf balls as they battled an intentional fire at a nature reserve, prompting the launch of an appeal.

On Friday night, the Oak Tree Nature Reserve in Mansfield received a call from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Crews battled the massive grass fire for more than three hours, according to the report, and were successful in keeping it from spreading to a nearby recreation facility.

Attacks on crews, according to area manager Andy Macey, are "absolutely unacceptable."

After receiving a call before 19:00 BST, seven fire engines and two water carriers from the fire and rescue services of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire arrived.

Mr. Macey continued: "Intentional fires endanger lives and divert our fire engines from other life-threatening situations.

"In addition to the increased number of accidents brought on by the inclement weather, purposeful fire initiation wastes resources.

Attacks on our crews, while they are performing their duties, are wholly unacceptable, and we will assist our police partners to find the perpetrators.

Those with information are urged to dial 101.