Last Saturday, two men were witnessed lighting a fire in an area of woodland in St. Helen’s Woods near St. Helen’s Wood Road, apparently to sit nearby and have a picnic. The fire quickly escalated with 10ft high flames that set fire to a tree. Without the swift intervention of our community who alerted the fire brigade, this could have become a very serious situation, particularly in these dry conditions.
Can we remind everyone that fires and BBQ’s are strictly prohibited in the byelaws which are set by DEFRA/Hastings Borough Council. If anyone sees anybody lighting fires, move away immediately and call 999.
Please also be particularly careful not to leave litter, bottles or cigarette butts or matches in the woods – all of these can become a fire risk.
Further information on the byelaws here.
Thank you for helping us to protect St. Helen’s Woods, the woodland, wildlife and local communities from the risk of fire.
