Disposable BBQs cause grass fire on public estate

Two disposable barbecues have caused a large grass blaze in a public estate, police have said.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of a fire near the Dower House on Stoke Park Estate in Bristol at about 15:30 BST on Thursday.

Crews from Temple, Kingswood and Southmead attended the scene to extinguish the flames and dampen the grass to prevent it from spreading.

Crews left the scene at about 18:45 BST. Avon and Somerset Police said despite the swift response from emergency services, the fire caused "considerable damage" to the park.

Fire crews have been tackling the flames

The estate, which sits beside the M32, is a local Site of Nature Conservation Interest covering more than 100 hectares.

Recently constructed habitats intended to support local wildlife were destroyed, as well as a range of young plants and vegetation that had been carefully introduced as part of conservation efforts, police said.

Police said the blaze destroyed habitats and vegetation that had been "carefully introduced" to promote conservation efforts

A police spokesperson said: "The loss represents a setback for ongoing projects aimed at improving biodiversity in the park and creating safe environments for birds, insects, small mammals, and native plant species.

"Authorities are reminding visitors of the heightened fire risks posed by disposable barbecues in public green spaces, particularly during warm and dry conditions, when both wildlife and plant life are especially vulnerable."