FIREFIGHTERS who tackled a blaze in Delamere Forest on Monday are urging people to take extra care in the Cheshire countryside.

About 250sq metres of scrubland was found alight by a fire crew from Northwich just after 6pm on Monday.

A further appliance was called to help dampen down the area.

A similar incident also took place at the forest on Saturday involving about 100sq meters

Ian Dunbar, the officer in charge of the incidents, said: “The crews involved in these incidents did a fantastic job to contain them.

“Fires of this nature can spread extremely quickly and can pose a real threat to people’s safety and the environment. Although we are not sure at this stage what caused this fire I am urging people to follow our advice and take extra care this summer to prevent a similar incident.”

Ian added: “What starts off as a small fire can all too easily get out of hand. I would really urge people to take extra care, especially during periods of dry weather, and encourage parents to educate their children about the dangers of playing with fire.If a fire breaks out call the fire and rescue service immediately. Remember, what looks like a small grass fire at the time can quickly turn into a major incident.

“However, do not attempt to put the fire out yourself unless it is very small.”

Anyone with any information about people stating fires deliberately should call Crimestoppers on 0845 555 111.