Firefighters have issued a stark warning after a disposable BBQ sparked a large blaze in a County Durham beauty spot.
Crews from High Handenhold and Durham Fire Station spent almost two hours tackling the fire on Saturday night at Waldridge Fell near Chester-le-Street.
The blaze comes after recent hot weather left the ground and vegetation extremely dry across the region, increasing the risk of fires spreading quickly.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service have issued the following advice: "Not ensuring your barbecue or campfire is fully extinguished before you leave can lead to fires which can quickly spread - especially in windy conditions."
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They added: "We're urging you to please pack a picnic instead of a barbecue this summer and do not have campfires in the countryside.
"Please take any rubbish home with you as reflective items like glass bottles can also start a fire.
"If you see a possible wildfire, get to a place of safety immediately and then call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service."
