Forest fires rage in Greece
PA
Firefighters are struggling to contain a blaze that has broken out on the Greek island of Chios.
The Daily Mail reports that over 200 fire-fighters, soldiers and volunteers have been called into action, and at least three villages and tourist resorts have been evacuated. Residents are being forced to watch from the beach as the flames take hold.
The fire is thought to have broken out in the early hours of Friday morning and rescue workers are finding it hard to control the flames due to strong winds.
As a result, ten villages on Chios are under threat, and the blaze has also moved closer to the Greek army base 'PAP' near the village of Vessas.
The island of Chios is the fifth largest in the Greek archipelagio and is a popular tourist destination. It seems that the 11th century monastry of Nea Moni, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be saved from the blaze - but the tourism industry will undoubtedly be affected.
Local media reports that the flames can be seen from the island of Crete, which is about 60 miles south of Chios.
CLick on the image below for our pick of the top ten Greek islands...
%VIRTUAL-Gallery-130102%
