National Trust warning over BBQ and fire rules

WITH the weather turning warmer and lockdown restrictions beginning to ease, some may be tempted to travel to an idyllic location for a BBQ with friends.

But National Trust rangers have warned the public they face a fine of up to £2,000 if they defy the BBQ and fires ban on Marsden Moor.

Last Tuesday (March 23), rangers and firefighters battled the first moor fire of the season.

The blaze took hold in an area described as a haven for ground nesting birds including the Curlew and Short Eared Owl.

The National

Trust’s countryside manager has urged those planning to travel to Marsden Moor to ‘leave the BBQ at home.’

In line with the Public Spaces Protection Order, BBQs and fires are banned on the moor all year round

In April, 2019, a fire covering 700 hectares of the moors burnt for four days and caused around £500,000 worth of damage. It is believed to have been started by a BBQ.

Countryside Manager for the National Trust, Craig Best, said: “We know lots of people will be really keen to get back to the countryside.

“This year we have all realised how important nature is for our wellbeing. We want the public to help us protect this landscape by leaving the BBQ at home and bringing a picnic instead.

“We will be increasing our patrols and working closely with West Yorkshire Fire and

Rescue Service to try and keep this landscape safe.

“All moorland fires are started by people; either by litter, cigarettes, BBQs or deliberately. We’d ask the public to stay local, to avoid putting too much pressure on beauty spots. If you see a fire or a lit BBQ, please dial 999.”