ARSONISTS are thought to be behind two heath fires in two days in Poole which could have "put lives at risk."

Four pumps were called in to fight a blaze at Canford Heath on Tuesday when a 50m by 20m area was alight near Culliford Crescent, just 300 yards from the busy Dorset Way.

Fire crews from Poole, Hamworthy and Wimborne were on scene from just after 11.30am and had to remain until around 3pm to dampen down the area.

Just the day before fire fighters had tackled a 20m by 20m area of heathland alight at Hatchpond, off Sandyhurst Close, Canford Heath, at around 1.30pm.

Police are now investigating both fires, which are thought to have been started deliberately.

A spokesman for Dorset Fire and Rescue condemned such arson attacks as a waste of resources which could put others at risk.

She said: "If we are called to an arson related incident such as these heath fires crews have to spend a lot of time dealing with it. It puts lives at risk when it is close to houses, it puts wildlife at risk, and it takes away resources from other emergency calls."

She added: "It tends to heighten during holidays. We would ask parents to make sure they know where their children are and that they are not out starting fires in heathland areas."

Pc Tom Isaac, of Gravel Hill Police Station appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

He added: "We are also appealing for the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity on heathland to the police as soon as they see or hear about it.

"Canford Heath Safer Neighbourhood Team will be regularly patrolling Canford Heath to deter any potential offenders."

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police on 01202 222 222.