Wildlife Trust issues warning after suspected deliberate fires destroy Sheffield nature reserve

The Wildlife Trust has urged people to remain vigilant after a series of suspected deliberate fires destroyed wildflower meadows and threatened homes.

Ten fire sites have been uncovered across Carbrook Ravine nature reserve and the neighbouring Richmond Heights open space.

It is suspected that the fires were lit deliberately after several blazes broke out over recent days.

One fire caused extensive damage across a section of meadowland, which is usually teeming with insects and other wildlife.

Flames were prevented from consuming the whole meadow only when they reached a footpath, which acted as an unexpected firebreak.

Wildflower meadows are precious habitats currently in steep decline across the UK, the Wildlife Trust said.

Staff and volunteers at Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust spend countless hours every year working to restore Carbrook Ravine.

The destruction has hit the local conservation team hard, while also causing severe alarm for local residents who watched flames burn near the boundaries of their back gardens.

Marta Alfaro-Tirado, Nature Recovery Manager (South) at Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust, shared her personal reaction to the destruction: "Seeing these natural spaces in flames is deeply upsetting.

“After seeing the woods where I spent my childhood in Spain recently reduced to nothing, it is very upsetting to be dealing with this here today.

“We see the extreme wildfire damage causing devastation in Europe on the news; extended periods of warm, dry weather create those exact same dangers right here in South Yorkshire."

The Fire service were also called to a fire started by a disposable barbecue in Wharncliffe Wood near the Trust’s Greno Woods nature reserve last week.

The Trust is calling on the public to help prevent further incidents by reporting suspicious activity and talking to young people about fire safety.

"We need everyone to be extra vigilant during dry weather and help us educate people on the consequences of playing with fire or using disposable barbecues," added Marta. "A small flame can quickly get out of control and put lives, homes, and wildlife at risk."

"Our team dedicates their time and effort all year round to protect nature reserves for the community to enjoy. Seeing years of hard work burn away in minutes is devastating. We ask everyone visiting our green spaces to leave barbecues at home, dispose of cigarettes safely, and call emergency services immediately if they spot smoke."