NUMEROUS chimney fires in Cornwall over the Christmas period have prompted an appeal by the fire brigade.

Fire crews were called out ten times to chimney fires over four days, including one at Pempwell near Stoke Climsland on December 23.

The call-outs included two on Christmas Eve, three on Christmas Day, two on Boxing Day and three on December 27.

The brigade and Cornwall County Council said such fires were preventable and regular inspections and cleaning would reduce the likelihood of them starting.

'Have your chimney swept by a competent chimney sweep at least once a year, preferably before you light the fire for the first time in the autumn,' said a council spokesperson.