FIRE crews have issued a public warning not to leave outdoor fires unattended as the warm weather returns.

On Monday firefighters from Bicester were called to a small wood fire near to the canal in Kirtlington, however, on arrival crews found more than seven other small campfires, or BBQs that were left, in some cases still hot and unattended.

Crews damped down those that were still warm and causing a potential fire hazard.

Oxford Mail:

Read again: Wildfire figures the highest in the county for five years

Last year the county was hit by a number of field and grassland fires which were quick to spread due to the hot and dry conditions.

Watch Manager Pete Mackay from Bicester Fire Station said “In this hot weather, whilst we all enjoy the benefits of being outdoors and socialising, it’s really important that fires are kept safe and controlled – several of these fires were simply left after use and had the full potential to spread and cause significant damage.

Oxford Mail:

"We would urge everyone to enjoy the hot weather responsibly, but to do it safely, and not jeopardise the safety of others or the county side and valuable resources to have to extinguish unnecessary fires."