AN AMBER wildfire has been issued ahead of the Easter weekend.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has warned of a higher-than-usual risk of a wildfire starting due to the weather forecast for Saturday and Sunday.

The service said should such a fire happen, it could spread quickly and easily due to the warm, dry and breezy conditions.

Group Manager Dave Waters said: "The combination of the long Easter weekend and good weather means that people will be out and about a lot more, and we want to be sure that the local area stays as safe as it can be for everyone.

"If you're visiting our heathlands, woodlands or countryside, please avoid having a campfire and take a picnic rather than use a disposable barbecue just a few simple steps can make a real difference to preventing fire from starting.

"We'd also remind people to take care if having a barbecue or bonfire at home. All too often, we see property destroyed when an initially small fire suddenly gets out of control. Never leave a bonfire or barbecue unattended, and site them well away from fences, trees or buildings."

People are urged not to have barbecues or campfires in open spaces and to extinguish cigarettes properly.

Call 999 and report a fire immediately and provide as much detail as possible about location and access, but also make sure you are in a safe place.

Landowners and land managers have been advised to be prepared for fires, where possible, and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained, with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.

More information on enjoying outdoors but staying fire safe can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-outdoors