FIREFIGHTERS extinguished a blaze covering three hectares of countryside land at Hazeley Heath yesterday.

Crews from Hartley Wintney, Fleet, Yateley and Rushmoor were called to the scene around 2.12pm on Friday afternoon (February 26), where two unattended contractor bonfires were “out of control”.

People were asked to avoid the northern area of the heathland near Hook while firefighters tackled the flames.

The fire service has advised Hart District Council’s Countryside Management team that “no further fires should be lit to dispose of cleared brush and cut trees in this area”.

Tweeting about the incident, Hartley Wintney Fire Station added: “Poor decision to have fires in these locations in the first place and then leave them. Surface grass and heather tinder dry.

“As warmer weather approaches, if you see a fire in the countryside, contact us immediately and don't attempt to tackle it.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Crews from Hartley Wintney, Fleet, Rushmoor and Yateley attended a large fire in the open on Hazeley Heath at 14:12 yesterday afternoon. 

"Approximately three hectares of heath, gorse and heather were involved in the fire that was extinguished using hose reel jets and beaters. 

"Firefighters left the scene following the stop message at 15:41." 

The Gazette has contacted Hart District Council for comment.