The threat caused by the dry weather was highlighted yet again yesterday afternoon when fire raged across 60 acres of grass and straw near Datchet.

It was reported soon after 12.30pm and people living in areas of Pococks Lane and Mead Close were advised to stay indoors.

Crews from Langley, Slough, Maidenhead, Wokingham Road, Ascot, and Windsor all went to the scene, while Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, London Fire Brigade and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service also supported.

The fire was under control within three hours.

It erupted only a day after a 60 acre field at Berkyn Manor Farm, Horton belonging to Royal Borough Deputy Mayor Colin Rayner was decimated by fire.

Cllr Rayner was briefly trapped by flames in a JCB as he tried to create a fire break.