A councillor has issued a stark warning after discovering evidence of a campfire or disposable barbecue in the New Forest.
Councillor David Harrison said he came across signs that someone had lit a fire near Bramble Hill car park, raising concerns about the risk of a wildfire.
He warned that the New Forest's ancient woodland, heathland and internationally important wildlife could be put at risk during the current dry weather.
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Mr Harrison said: "I came across this in the week - evidence of somebody having lit a fire or disposable BBQ near the Bramble Hill car park."
He urged visitors not to light fires or use disposable barbecues in the open forest, warning that even a discarded cigarette could spark a blaze capable of threatening homes, livestock and rare habitats.
He added that anyone who accidentally starts a fire should call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.
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