Young people are urged not to light fires or have barbecues on Hambledon and Buss’s Common, both of which are tinder dry.

Hambledon Parish Council has been alerted to gatherings of youngsters sharing barbecues. There is evidence of people sleeping out and camping on the commons and the Fire Brigade has expressed concern.

As a parent, please ensure your young family members are not lighting fires of any kind when they are out-and-about meeting friends. Even a barbecue in the sand pit is not safe, as sparks could set heather ablaze.

A fire would not only be extremely destructive to wildlife and habitats, it would endanger surrounding houses.

Notices have been put up warning of the risk. If you see anyone having a barbecue please ask them to stop. During current Covid-19 restrictions, it is especially important not to expose our emergency services to avoidable risk.

Thank you. Stewart Payne, emergencies coordinator, Hambledon Parish Council. 07831 393561