Reckless fires deliberately started in the countryside are causing growing concern.

Berkshire firefighters responded to four fires in the open across a 20 minute period yesterday evening.

Windsor firefighters joined a crew from Wokingham Road shortly before 9pm after getting a report of a fire in the open at Ufton Nervet.

Six minutes later Slough firefighters responded to a call and found a pushchair alight under a bench at Monksfield Way, Slough. They were on the scene for around five minutes, extinguishing the fire.

Three minutes after this a fire in the woods close to High View, Calcot was reported.

This was immediately followed by another call reporting a fire in the open in Horton Road, Datchet. One crew from Langley Fire Station responded and were at the scene for under 10 minutes.

Station Manager Pete Farmer, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service's Prevention Team Manager said: “Fortunately all of these fires were contained effectively by our crews – but it is worth reminding people that these fires can easily spread and pose real danger. There may also be unseen hazards nearby, such as aerosol cans, paint canisters and other chemicals.

“That is danger to our firefighters, but also everyone in the community – and it can be a drain on vital resources.

“If you see a fire in the countryside, however small, call 999 immediately. Please help support your fire and rescue service by reporting anyone acting irresponsibly or carelessly with fire in the countryside.”