A fire has burned through more than 100 hectares of woods and heathland near Bolderwood, devastating some of most fragile habitats in the New Forest.

The blaze started when a van caught fire on Sunday 9 August and spread to vegetation on both sides of the road.

Firefighters battled to contain the fire, taking 24 hours to bring it under control – although the danger of flare ups remains.

The public have been urged to stay away from the area while the fire service dealt with the situation.

Forestry England car parks at Bolderwood, Canadian Memorial and Bratley View have been closed to allow emergency services access to the area.

The New Forest has the most has the most extensive area of lowland heath remaining in Europe.

It’s home to many nationally and internationally rare species – including all six of the UK’s reptiles, plants, insects and birds such as Dartford warblers and nightjar.

Although this incident was caused by a vehicle fire, the national park authority urged people to help lower the risk of wildfires following the extended period of hot, dry weather.

BBQs, fires and stoves are illegal in the open countryside and people can be fined – a Public Space Protection Order was introduced three years ago to protect the Forest

Cigarettes should be completely extinguished. Don’t drop litter, especially glass which can ignite fires.

Further updates on the fire can be found on BBC News.