WILD fires could be sparked during the ongoing heatwave, authorities have warned.

Both the Malvern Hills Trust and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service have warned revellers against using disposable barbecues on the hills, saying a single spark could cause a catastrophic wildfire.

Barbecues are not permitted on the hills and commons due to the risk they pose for potentially starting wildfires.

Disposable barbecues are particularly problematic as they can be windblown and, if placed directly on the ground, can damage the important grassland vegetation underneath.

A wildfire on the hills and commons could put the public, grazing livestock and nearby residential properties at risk as well as damaging the nationally important and scarce species and habitats of this special landscape.

Each spring and summer, barbecues are extinguished and confiscated by Trust staff but unfortunately some result in fire damage to larger areas of land.

If you do see a fire, please call 999 immediately.

Early detection can prevent a fire becoming much more dangerous, serious, and uncontrollable wildfire.

Over the last few summers, people with disposable barbecues have caused minor fires on the Malvern Hills, with some spreading and requiring the help of the fire brigade.