Heath wildfire caused by 'out-of-control campfire'

The blaze on Blackheath Common has been contained but affected four hectares (9.8 acres) of land

Parents have been urged to speak to their children about the dangers of wildfires after an "out-of-control campfire" ripped through heathland.

Two fire engines, a water carrier and specialist off-road vehicles were called to the blaze on Friday afternoon after it began to spread across Blackheath Common, near Guildford.

Surrey Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) advised residents to keep windows and doors closed following the fire, which affected four hectares (9.8 acres) of land, while police closed Sample Oak Lane by the Chilworth level crossing.

On Friday evening, a fire service spokesperson said it had been contained, but crews would remain on scene overnight to monitor hotspots.

Crews were still at the scene on Saturday checking for hotspots but said a "continued presence from members of the public is making it difficult for them to do their jobs safely".

"We strongly urge you to stay away from the area for your own safety," a spokesperson added.

In a post on Facebook, SFRS said: "If you are a parent/guardian of a young person please have a chat with them about the dangers of wildfires in this heat."