OPERATION Heathland has returned this year with the backing of two-time Olympic champion Victoria Pendleton, as the drive continues to ensure the safety of Dorset’s heaths and forests.

At present there’s a heightened risk of wildfire as a result of an extended period of dry weather and the campaign calls on everyone to protect the ‘fragile habitats’.

In April around 42 acres of wildlife-rich heathland were destroyed after a fire, that lasted nearly six hours, swept across Canford Heath.

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This year Urban Heaths Partnership (UHP) is asking the public to create and share their own photos and social media video clips to say why they’re supporting #OperationHeathland.

The police operation has been running through the summer months for more than 20 years in partnership with a variety of public services.

Paul Attwell, team manager of the Urban Heaths Partnership, said: “We are working with partners, especially Dorset Police and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, to remind everyone that lowland heath is now rarer on the planet than rainforest, quite a shocking fact. It also supports some of the UK’s rarest wildlife which we’ll lose if this habitat disappears. So, it’s all about raising awareness and engendering a passion to look after it now and for future generations.”

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More than 75% of lowland heathland has been lost or destroyed in the past 200 years and Marc House, head of prevention at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, says just a few steps can preserve what’s left for future generations.

He said: “As the warm and dry weather continues, we know people will be drawn out and about to our countryside areas. If you’re visiting our heathlands, woodlands or countryside, please avoid having a campfire and take a picnic rather than use a disposable barbecue – just a few simple steps can make a real difference to preventing fire from starting.

"We’d also remind people to take care if having a barbecue or bonfire at home. All too often, we see property destroyed when an initially small fire suddenly gets out of control. Never leave a bonfire or barbecue unattended, and site them well away from fences, trees or buildings.”