BANK holiday bonfires and barbecues heighten the risk of wildfires, Wiltshire Fire Service is warning.

Families are being urged to take extra care over Easter when having a day out in the country.

Gaynor Mant, from the fire service's prevention department, said: “If you decide to have a campfire or barbecue, please make sure that you’re in a safe area and that the ashes are fully extinguished and damped down before you leave.

"Large wildfires are thankfully rare but, when they do occur, they take a great deal of resources to bring under control, which impacts the availability of our crews for property fires and other emergencies. The damage to local wildlife is also significant, often destroying ecosystems that have taken years to build up.

She added: “Barbecues and bonfires can get out of control very easily. If you are burning garden waste in the garden, please site any bonfire well away from buildings, fences, trees and garden structures, and have a garden hose to hand in case the fire starts to accelerate. Always call 999 if you think the fire is spreading.”

Other tips include avoiding lighting fluids to start a fire, and not leaving glass bottles in woodland because it can magnify sunlight and easily start a fire.