Durham fire chiefs issue barbecue warning after Waldridge Fell blaze

Fire chiefs are asking people to pack a picnic instead of a barbecue on days out following a fire at a country park.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) crews spent nearly two hours dealing with the blaze at Waldridge Fell, near Chester-le-Street, on Saturday, which was sparked by a disposable barbecue.

The service has also asked people to avoid campfires.

The warning comes with ground and vegetation across the North East described as being “extremely dry” following the prolonged spell of hot weather.

“We’re urging you to please pack a picnic instead of a barbecue this summer and do not have campfires in the countryside,” the service said.

Anyone who does light a barbecue or fire has been asked to make sure it has been fully extinguished before they leave, with windy conditions often hastening the spread of flames.

Reflective items such as glass bottles were also a hazard, the brigade said, and should be taken away with all other items of litter.

Drivers have also been told not to park on dry grass or vegetation as it can “ignite” it.

Last weekend also saw crews tackle a wildfire at High Shincliffe, near Durham University’s Graham Sports Centre, covering an area the size of 14 football pitches at its height.

The cause has not been identified.

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