Athens, 12:45. A wildfire, driven by gale-force winds, is tearing through the Peloponnese coast. British tourists are being evacuated from resorts near the ancient site of Olympia.
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that RAF helicopters are on standby for rescue missions. The scene is chaotic. Charred hillsides.
Smoke blotting out the sun. Tourists scrambling for buses. The Greek authorities have called for international assistance.
But here's the rub. This is a political game as much as a natural disaster. The Foreign Office is briefing.
The MOD is posturing. The Greek government is facing questions about its fire preparedness. And British tourists are caught in the middle.
The evacuation order came late. Too late for some. Six people have been hospitalised with smoke inhalation.
The fire is only 30% contained. The wind is not dropping. The next 24 hours are critical.








