DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are urging the public to be careful while in the countryside during the current dry weather.

The warning comes after a large gorse fire of over ten hectares took place on Meldon Hill, Chagford, last Thursday. Firefighters were tied up for more than four hours trying to bring the fire under control.

With sunny weather predicted, many people will be encouraged to be outside, whether this is a causal stroll in the country side or hiking across Dartmoor.

The fire and rescue service remind walkers and campers to stop and think about the consequences of gorse fires to the environment and how they tie up valuable fire resources for some time.

George Setter, arson reduction manager, said: 'These fires put the lives of the public and fire crews at risk, keeping firefighters from attending genuine emergencies. 

'They also scar the beautiful landscape and wildlife habitats which come alive at this time of year.

'We urge people to think again about the consequences of their actions.'