Wildfire warning in place as dry weather continues

The amber alert will be in place all week

An amber warning of a rising risk of wildfires has been issued, as dry weather continues.

The alert covers Dorset and Wiltshire.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) urged people not to use disposable barbecues or have campfires - which are banned in many areas of Dorset - and to make sure they put cigarettes out.

The fire service said the amber alert, in place through the week, is the second to be issued this year.

Current weather forecasts show no rain is predicted for the early part of April.

Anybody who sees a wildfire is urged to call 999.

A fire in May 2020 destroyed 220 hectares of woods and heathland at Wareham Forest.

The blaze, which burned for more than two weeks, was thought to have been started by a disposable barbeque.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) has been in place in parts of Wareham Forest since the fire.

More controlled zones are currently being considered to prevent wildfires in grass, heathland and forest areas across Dorset.

The restrictions could see anyone caught lighting barbecues, lanterns or fireworks, or dropping cigarettes in grass, heathland and forest areas facing a £100 fine.

The consultation runs until 20 April.