Firefighters tackled a major heath blaze at Puddletown Forest.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said ten fire engines were at the scene on Sunday.

The cause is believed to be a barbecue which got out of control.

Crews from Poole, Weymouth, Wareham,Hamworthy, Blandford, Wimborne, Dorchester and Bere Regis were involved in fighting the blaze.

Wildlife has been destroyed in the fire, crews said.

The brigade said this incident is an example of why it is urging people not to have bonfires and fires in the open as they quickly spread in this current dry weather.

"We cannot stress enough how irresponsible this is, especially in these current times," the service said.

In a previous warning the brigade said: "Please avoid having bonfires at the moment, they cause many unnecessary turnouts and they get out of control easily as it is dry. Neighbours complaining about bonfires also tie up 999 lines.

South West Farmer:

"People are also suffering with breathing difficulties and we are mindful that smoke won't help."