French firefighters hurt tackling forest blaze

Nine firefighters have been injured, three seriously, fighting a 74-acre forest fire on the French Mediterranean island of Corsica, rescue services said.

Three of the firefighters had serious burns after being trapped by flames in Calenzana, in upper Corsica, on Saturday, while the six others suffered from smoke inhalation, officials said.

The blaze was fed by dry, scorching weather and strong winds. It is now under control, officials said today.

Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin thanked the firefighters for their “willingness, courage and commitment”.