Bonfire plea after gardens go up in flames

A bonfire warning has been issued after a garden in Leicestershire went up in flames.

Fire crews were called to Station Road in Glenfield at about 16:10 BST on Saturday after a back garden bonfire spread out of control, with trees, fences and sheds all alight.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control, and returned later to dampen down the garden to prevent any flare-ups.

The brigade said it was one of three bonfire-related callouts in the space of just over two hours and urged residents to "think twice" about starting fires in the current dry conditions.

Other fires started accidentally by back garden fires included a call to Rempstone Road in Coleorton just before 15:00, and a fire in Spring Lane, Wymondham, just before 17:00.

The fire service has urged people to avoid starting fires on their property during the "warm, dry conditions".

A spokesperson said anyone who did decide to have a bonfire should avoid building them near things that could catch fire like trees, fences, bushes and patio furniture.

People should not build fires too big, said the fire service, use accelerants like petrol or burn anything toxic, and should monitor the fire until it is fully extinguished.

Water should be kept in hand "in case things get out of control" and people should be considerate of neighbours.

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