THE New Forest has been placed on amber alert for wildfires following a period of dry weather.

Now Hampshire fire crews have urged the public to do all they can to avoid starting any fires.

Warning after youths seen running away from camp fire

A spokesman for Ringwood fire station said: "We can all help to reduce the risk by remembering that barbecues or fires of any kind are not allowed, ensuring cigarettes are completely extinguished and by taking all litter home."

The warning comes after a 200m x 200m area of heathland at Whitesheet Plantation near Wimborne was destroyed in a fire on Easter Monday.