'Tougher action' on wild camping after beach fire

A fire broke out on the sand dunes at Druridge Bay

Tougher measures to crackdown on wildfires caused by illegal campers at a popular beach must brought in, councillors have said.

A huge blaze broke out on the sand dunes at Druridge Bay in Northumberland in August, which was caused by an "out-of-control" campfire.

The fire left vegetation blackened and charred despite previous wildfire warnings following a spell of very dry weather.

Northumberland Labour leader councillor Scott Dickinson, who represents the Druridge Bay ward, called for tougher punishments for those who ignore bans on wild camping and fires. The council said it was "considering" further steps.

"We need plans for stronger enforcement to deter this behaviour," he said.

Conservative councillor Gordon Stewart, the cabinet member for public safety, said: "It's a beautiful part of the county that is so important to local residents and for tourism and leisure - damage to the area is unacceptable and enforcement action will be taken."

Representatives from Northumberland Coast National Landscape Partnership and the council's countryside and green spaces team will meet to see what more can be done to address illegal camping and anti-social behaviour, Stewart said.

"Partnership working is crucial to tackling these issues," he added.

"Further steps under consideration include a review of physical measures and a public spaces protection order."

Public spaces protection orders allow councils and the police to implement restrictions in certain areas in a bid to tackle persistent anti-social behaviour and other issues having an impact on residents' quality of life, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.