Probe into woodland fires (From Bucks Free Press)

Probe into woodland fires

9:24am Friday 8th February 2013 in News By James Nadal

AN INVESTIGATION is under way after a series of fires one day on Marlow Common.

The Woodland Trust and Wycombe District Council, which both own part of the woods, have launched a probe after the small blazes on January 31.

Fire crews from High Wycombe attended and found a series of small fires which were put out by 4.30pm.

Police were called out on the day at 3.28pm but officers do not believe it is a case of arson.

Council spokesman Sue Robinson said: "Our Woodland Service is currently investigating the fires.

"Fortunately, given the wet conditions at this time of year, fires do not spread so easily, but any fire has the potential to injure people and damage the natural habitat.

"We would always advise people visiting woodland and nature areas to take special care and to contact the fire service if they see a fire, or, if they see suspicious behaviour or suspect arson to get in touch with the police."

Paul Jarczewski, Woodland Trust Site Manager, said: "We’re currently investigating the matter further to establish the cause of the fires and ascertain the extent of the damage.

"The Countryside Code clearly states that fires can be devastating to both wildlife and habitats, therefore under no circumstances should visitors light fires within a woodland."