A warning has been issued after a third arson attack on Turbary Common in Wallisdown in as many days.

Yesterday firefighters battled in the sweltering heat after a blaze broke out at the site.

Flames soared above the dry gorse and undergrowth and at one point were dangerously close to nearby houses. Thankfully, Turbary Park Avenue acted as a fire break and prevented the incident from becoming disastrous.

The fire was started deliberately and is the third arson attack on the common this week - crews were called to two separate seats of fires on the land on Tuesday.

Police and fire officers are asking residents to be extra vigilant, saying their resources could be better used at more serious incidents.

Around 22 firefighters attended the scene at 12.35pm and brought the fire quickly under control.

Leading firefighter Dave Myers, from Redhill Fire Station, said: "If it hadn't been for the road this incident would have been far more serious.

"We obviously warn the public to take care and remember the conditions in the current heat. Incidents like this obviously prevent fire crews from attending more serious incidents."

Inspector Dave Osborne, of Bournemouth police, said: "We can confirm that it was started deliberately and is being investigated as arson.

"Witnesses saw two young males on mountain bikes leaving the scene heading towards Wallisdown Road from Turbary Common. If any members of public have any information about these two we would ask them to contact us on 01202 222500." He added: "We would ask for members of the public to be especially vigilant at this hot time of the year and to report any suspicious activity to us immediately."