Quad bike fire on Stedham Common sparks wildfire warning

Firefighters arrived at just before 6pm to find the blaze had begun to spread towards the surrounding woodland.

Both an engine from Midhurst and an offroad vehicle were sent to the fire, which was at a location difficult to access.

A spokesman said: “We were called to reports of a fire in the open at Stedham Common on Monday evening at 5.57pm.

“Upon arrival crews found a fire involving a quad bike and quickly extinguished the blaze, which had started to spread to the surrounding woodland.”

The fire service warned people to be careful over the coming days during the warm weather.

“We would like to remind all residents to take extra care when out and about in the countryside over the coming days,” the spokesman said.

“The Met Office is forecasting the risk of wildfires to be high over the next few days due to the warmer weather.

“Please ensure you do not put yourself and others at risk of fire.

“Ensure cigarettes are disposed of responsibly, don’t burn garden waste and take extra care with BBQs.

“In these dry conditions, just a small spark can have serious consequences.”