A red alert for fire has been issued for Dorset and Wiltshire - the highest possible level.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging farmers to take extra care as the heatwave and dry land are the perfect combination for sparks to devastate fields.

In the first 10 days of August, the fire service has already attended 180 fires in the open - more than 420 per cent more than this same time last year.

The red fire severity alert means that, should a wildfire breakout, it is likely to spread fast and easily.

The risk is greatest on large areas of open land, such as heathlands, fields and even cliffsides.

Fire service group manager Stuart Gillion said: “After months of warm and dry weather, our countryside areas are tinder dry.

“This not only increases the risk of fires spreading quickly but also increases the risk of ignition.

“We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”

The fire service is asking the public to avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside and to put cigarettes out properly.

Landowners and farmers are advised to be prepared for fires, where possible, and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained, with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.

They should also keep their machinery well maintained.

The public are being asked to avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside and to put cigarettes out properly.

Mr Gillion added: “Dealing with wildfires is incredibly resource-intensive, and some can take days – and even weeks – to bring under control.

“Alongside the devastating impact on the countryside, such fires are also very costly, and yet they can be prevented if people heed the warnings and take care.

"We can all play a part in keeping Dorset and Wiltshire safe from fire.”

Parts of England and Wales are facing an 'exceptional' risk of wildfires as an amber heat warning comes into place.

The Met Office has raised the Fire Severity Index to exceptional – the highest level – for much of southern England for this coming Sunday.