Wildfire Warning Issued For Ashdown Forest As Dry Weather Continues

Visitors to Ashdown Forest are being urged to remain vigilant after managers warned that ongoing dry weather has left the historic woodland at an increased risk of wildfire.

The warning follows a number of small fires in and around the forest during recent weeks, including an incident earlier this month near the Ashdown Forest Centre on Colemans Hatch Road, Forest Row, where firefighters tackled around 70 square metres of smouldering grass and trees.

Ashdown Forest, which inspired the Hundred Acre Wood in A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh stories, is one of the South East's most important natural habitats and is home to a wide range of rare plants and wildlife.

Ash Walmsley, Head of Countryside at Ashdown Forest, said even the smallest ignition source could have devastating consequences.

He said:

"Just one spark can set off a chain of events that could devastate the forest's fragile ecosystems and present a danger to visitors, our grazing animals, and to wildlife."

Visitors are being asked to take their litter home, avoid lighting barbecues or campfires and never discard cigarette ends on the ground.

The appeal comes after several wildfires have been reported across the South Downs this summer, including incidents near Eastbourne in East Sussex and at Devil's Dyke in West Sussex.

Mr Walmsley added:

"There is absolutely no room for complacency. Vigilance is still needed at all times."

David Washington, from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, echoed the warning, saying:

"At this time the fire risk is very high. We encourage everyone to enjoy the countryside but to be careful."

With hot, dry conditions continuing across much of Sussex, residents and visitors are being reminded that taking simple precautions can help prevent potentially devastating wildfires.