Warning after moorland fire near monument

Visitors have been warned against using campfires and barbecues after firefighters spent five days tackling a blaze in North Yorkshire.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (NYFRS) was called to the scene near Captain Cook's monument on Coate Moor on 1 July and left on Sunday, Forestry England said.

The fire was believed to have been caused by a campfire or gas stove, a spokesperson added.

Mark Upton, station manager for prevention at NYFRS said: "This incident is a timely reminder that even a small campfire or camping stove can have serious consequences."

He added: "By taking simple precautions, we can all help protect our moorland and forests from the risk of wildfire."

Although the fire was brought under control, firefighters had to scrape back vegetation and soil layers to prevent the heat spreading through underlying peat, a spokesperson for Forestry England said.

They added that peatland fires could threaten wildlife and habitats as well as releasing significant amounts of stored carbon and causing environmental damage.

"We are asking everyone visiting our forests this summer to help protect these special places by leaving campfires and barbecues at home and reporting any signs of fire immediately," said Saskia Pilbeam, Forester for Cleveland at Forestry England.

"Many people do not realise that even a small campfire can quickly become a serious wildfire, especially during warm, dry conditions."

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