Major wildfire in Greece

Greek authorities have declared a state of emergency as a major wildfire burned unchecked north-east of Athens, threatening homes and villages. Many residents fled on foot.

Flames raced toward the villages of Grammatiko, Kalentzi and Varnavas near the town of Marathon, 25 miles north-east of the Greek capital, cutting them off from the road. Residents and volunteers desperately tried to prevent the blaze from engulfing houses.