TINDERBOX conditions have led to fire warnings being issued on the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales.

Signs have gone up urging people to take the utmost case to avoid causing fires when visiting or passing through the National Parks.

The warnings follow a long dry period causing easily combustible conditions and rangers have been putting up fire risk notices asking visitors to be extra vigilant because of the increased risk of moorland and forest fires.

The dry weather has also seen water levels fall dramatically at Derwent Reservoir in County Durham, leading to fears of potential drought.

A fire service spokesman said: “We would urge people who are visiting the Yorkshire Dales or North York Moors to pay attention to the warning signs.”

“If anyone spots a fire we would ask them to call 999 straightaway.”