'BBQs are NOT essential activities': Firefighters' plea as West Yorkshire moorland destroyed

Firefighters have urged people to stay at home to save lives after a fire devastated moorland in West Yorkshire.

By Abbey Maclure

Published 1st Apr 2020, 11:45 BST

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A disposable barbecue started a moorland fire last week, just days after fire crews had to tackle a huge blaze on Marsden moor.

The barbecue had been lit despite UK 'lockdown' measures in place urging people to stay in their homes to help fight the coronavirus.

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue shared a picture of the aftermath of a moorland fire on Facebook, warning that heading out for BBQs, picnics or to meet friends was not an essential activity.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue shared a picture of the aftermath of a moorland fire

The message said: "This is not an #AprilFools.

"This is the aftermath of a moorland fire last week.

"Heading out for BBQs, picnics & meeting friends are NOT essential activities.

"Please #StayHomeSaveLives & #BeMoorAware."

West Yorkshire Marsden Facebook