CREWS were called to extinguish a fire in the open countryside between Seaton and Beer yesterday evening (Wednesday).

Fire crews from Seaton and Sidmouth attended the scene, using a hose reel jet and a compressed air foam system to bring the fire under control promptly.

The fire service is advising the public not to take disposable barbecues into the countryside or onto the beach.

A spokesperson for Seaton Fire Station said: "We have seen a large number of wildfires caused by disposable barbecues that have been left behind once someone has finished with them."

They also advise never to throw cigarette ends out of a car window, as they could start a fire and ruin surrounding countryside, and don't leave bottles or glass in woodlands, as the sunlight shining through glass can start a fire.

If you discover a fire in the open, do not be tempted to investigate; leave the area as quickly as possible, call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service. Do not return unless the fire and rescue service tells you that it is safe to do so.

Whilst Seaton fire crew were dealing with this incident, crews from Colyton and Axminster attended to automatic fire alarm calls elsewhere in the town.