An underground fire is still burning five years after it was discovered in a disused Gateshead mine - and the council warns it could burn for "several" years yet.
Firefighters were called to the site on Keelman’s Way, near Ryton Golf Club, in February 2015 after reports of smouldering.
Experts believe a fire is burning in the former Clara Vale mine workings and it is thought two former ponds filled with spoil and aggregates from the mine could be the source.
It is understood that the Coal Authority previously offered its expertise, but because the burning material is "historic landfill" and not a coal tip, Scottish bing or colliery spoil, the organisation is not responsible for it.
The authority is responsible for coal seams and workings but there are no coal seams at shallow depth at Clara Vale.
A spokesperson for Gateshead Council said the fire was made safe in 2015 but could be burning for years to come.
She added: “The fire will continue to burn at the surface for several years under the capping material of limestone and clay applied in 2015.
"It is safely contained by the installation of clay cut off walls around the boundary of the affected area.
"The council is not aware of any issues or recent complaints about the burning area which are of concern.”
This was echoed by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service , with Swalwell Community Fire Station manager Mark Hayes saying he is confident there is no risk to the community.
“We worked closely with our partners to make the area safe when the fire was first reported in 2015," he said.
"Since then, we have continued to monitor the situation and we remain confident that there is no risk to the community."
He added: "However, we would always encourage anyone who notices signs of fire to call 999 and let our Control Room operatives make the decision on whether our crews are needed.”
In Ohio, USA, a fire in a coal seam that was started by striking miners in 1884 is still burning.
