Police investigate fire in 'picturesque woodland'

An acre of "picturesque woodland" in the North York Moors has been destroyed in a fire, prompting a police investigation.

The blaze had been burning for about three weeks when it was discovered between Egton Bridge and Glaisdale, according to North Yorkshire Police.

Local volunteers helped fire crews from Scarborough, Goathland and Whitby for several hours to put out the fire on 4 September.

The force said it was caused by failing to extinguish a campfire properly, with the culprits ignoring private land signs and locked gates in the area.

"This incident has caused great concern to local residents and the landowner, who is distraught by the careless damage caused to the picturesque woodland," said PC Jack Donaldson.

“Nobody had permission to camp or start any fires."

Several items of litter and camping equipment were left at the scene, police said, with the area maintained as a conservation habitat for wildlife.

PC Donaldson added: “We encourage people to enjoy the outdoors and to get out and explore the countryside, but to respect the landscape and wildlife which make these places their home."

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