The fire service has issued a warning about leaving campfires unattended after crews were called to a blaze in Maidstone.

They put out the fire, which was reported shortly after 2pm in Waterside Gate and left the scene around an hour later.

Now people are being warned that such blazes can easily spread out of control, leaving people and property at risk.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "These incidents can divert valuable resources from other life-threatening emergencies, such as house fires or road traffic collisions.

There are a number of ways in which people can help us, such as discarding cigarettes and rubbish carefully.

"But we’d also like to warn deliberate fire-setters that if they are caught, they face fines or several years in jail, even a life sentence if someone is killed as a result of their actions. "

If you see anyone attempting to light fires unlawfully, call the police or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.