Liberal Democrat councillor and Environment Spokesperson Bob Hare has condemned the actions of those who set fire to brushwood in Alexandra Park and he has made a number of suggestions to prevent future hazards arising.

While walking near the park recently, Cllr Hare saw flames shooting into the sky, called the fire brigade and rushed to investigate. He found that some youths had set a large pile of brushwood alight. This irresponsible act also threatened several young trees that were right beside the fire.

“When I asked the youths what they were doing, one of them explained that it was his birthday,” says Cllr Hare. “Why setting fire to brushwood should be seen as a birthday treat is beyond me. These youths were aware of the danger of the fire spreading and potentially serious damage to the trees, but did not care.” The youths ran off when they heard fire brigade sirens and the fire was successfully extinguished.

Cllr Hare has now asked the park’s manager to ensure that piles of twiggy brushwood are not left standing around as they are easily ignited, and that log piles – which are good for wildlife – are of large branches only, which are harder to light. He made a number of suggestions for their safe, environmental storage.

Cllr Hare subsequently received clarification from the Alexandra Park Manager that the small piles of brushwood regularly seen in the Sea Scouts area of the park are collected by a member of the public who likes to help keep the area tidy.

“I understand the enthusiasm to help in the park, but this fire illuminates the potential danger of accumulating too much twiggy material.

“I am pleased to hear that some of the big logs from the trees felled as part of the park restoration work will be used for log piles, which will be good for wildlife without creating a fire risk.”