WALKERS in the New Forest are being urged not to smoke in a bid to reduce the risk of devastating wildfires.
The National Trust owns several commons in the northern part of the Forest and is asking people not to light up when using its land.
It comes after a record-breaking spell of hot weather, with temperatures in several areas of the UK hitting 40C for the first time.
The driest period since 1935 has already resulted in several wildfires breaking out in Hampshire.
Areas affected include Hythe, Warsash Nature Reserve and Pennington Common, where two blazes started a few days apart.
Campfires and disposable barbecues have been banned in the New Forest for some time.
Now the National Trust is urging residents and visitors not to smoke on its land. It is thought to be the first time the organisation has issued such a plea.
A spokesperson said: "Our countryside and wildlife remain at very high risk from wildfire.
"We’re continuing to appeal to people to help us protect these special places by taking extra care when they visit, by not lighting fires or barbecues and not smoking.”
A Forestry England spokesperson added: "We're in a period of sustained Amber wildfire alerts across the south and we hope people recognise how serious this is.
"Wildfires can be caused by many things so we want everyone’s help to do what they can to help prevent them.
"The Wareham Forest fire in 2020 destroyed over 220 hectares of forest and heathland and is suspected to have been started by a disposable BBQ.
"Since then we have made clear to visitors that BBQs, including disposable ones, campfires or fires of any kind are not permitted in car parks or other areas of the New Forest.
"To reinforce this message, we have also removed all our BBQ stands and facilities in the New Forest.
"We have also put up highly visible signs asking visitors to help us reduce the risk of fire and protect important habitats and wildlife.”
The latest wildfire at Pennington Common broke out last Saturday.
The blaze started near Wainsford Road and travelled towards St Mark's Graveyard. Firefighters are reported to have found discarded cigarette lighters at the scene.
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