Two fires that destroyed 19 homes in Stourbridge were started accidentally in a field where agricultural machinery was being used, West Midlands Fire Service said.Nineteen homes were destroyed in a wildfire in the West Midlands while 13 properties were partially damaged in the blaze.Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill said: "Our thoughts remain with everyone affected, whether directly or indirectly, by events on 13 August in Stourbridge and beyond. "Many people in Stourbridge face having to rebuild homes and lives and, understandably, have questions as part of that process. “That’s why we are confirming that both fires were not started deliberately. They were accidental. "I know that many are still struggling to comprehend the scale of damage and personal loss. I'm also acutely aware that this information will not bring those back homes, livelihoods or cherished memories. “I remain immensely proud of the response from our firefighters, staff and officers, who worked tirelessly in incredibly challenging conditions to protect lives and property. “I would also like to thank our colleagues in the police and ambulance services, members of the local farming community who assisted on the day, and the many residents, businesses and community groups who came together to support those affected. The response to this incident showed the very best of Stourbridge and the wider West Midlands. “While investigations continue into the full circumstances of what happened, we wanted to share this latest update as soon as possible. I hope it will go some way towards helping people understand what happened on that exceptionally hot and challenging day.”More follows on this breaking news story...Subscribe here to get the latest updates from The Independent