Greek wildfire finally tamed

The massive wildfire near Athens that destroyed forests, farmland and scores of homes over the past four days had largely died down today.

Fires were still burning near the coastal town of Porto Germeno, north-west of the capital, and near villages to the east on the Evia island.

A total of 500 firefighters, assisted by some 300 soldiers and 132 fire engines are patrolling the area.

The effort from the air has also been scaled down, with just three planes and one helicopter operating to put out recurring flare-ups.

International rescuers and their equipment, including planes and helicopters, who helped control the fire in a massive effort yesterday are still in Greece but are not actively involved.