Norfolk wildfire risk raised to ‘very high’ by Met Office

Roger Woods, communications manager for Forestry England East which oversees Thetford Forest and its estate, has urged visitors to the forest to take extra care this summer, saying "it's like a tinderbox out there". 

The warning comes after the wildfire risk in Norfolk and much of the UK was raised to "very high" by the Met Office, as a heatwave that has seen temperatures soar to more than 30C continues this week.

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"We take fires very seriously," Mr Woods said. "Any fires have a significant impact on our estate, from several square feet to many hectares.

"At this time of the year, it's all about prevention. Just think about what you're doing when you're out there.

A significant fire broke out in Thetford Forest in 2006 that saw many acres burned (Image: Newsquest)

"Are you being as safe as you can be? Think, leave nothing but your footprints."

Mr Woods said the prevalence of "lethal" disposable barbeques poses a considerable risk to woodland safety and blamed the improper disposal of cigarette butts as a major contributor. 

But fires can also be ignited by bottles left on the ground that can act as magnifying glasses. 

"While some fires may be set maliciously, the majority of wildfires are purely accidental," he said.

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"But fire is fire. We're on a completely flat playing field here so any fire can do a massive amount of damage.

"Thankfully we haven't had a significant one at Thetford for several years."

Last year was the hottest year on record according to Met Office data, which has spurred an increase in warm, dry summers - ideal conditions for wildfires. 

Mr Woods added: "We were very, very lucky last year, but we need people to keep acting responsibly so we can say the same this year."