ONE of Scotland's top forestry bosses has warned members of the public not to light campfires, stoves or cigarettes when visiting the nation's woodlands. 

Simon Hodgson's plea comes in the wake of several wildfires that have ravaged a number of forests in recent weeks, with one in Cannich – near Inverness – likely to be the most severe on record in the country. 

Forestry Journal: The fire in Cannich is likely to be the largest wildfire on record in Scotland The fire in Cannich is likely to be the largest wildfire on record in Scotland (Image: PA)

A 'very high' alert for wildfires remains in place across Scotland – as well as other parts of the UK – but there is some concern woodland visitors are not heeding the warning. Late last month, a ranger was assaulted by two campers when he asked them to extinguish a campfire in one previously blaze-hit forest. 

Simon, the chief executive of Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS), said: “These last few weeks have been unusual for the lack of rainfall in some parts of the country, as well as the extended period of hot, sunny weather.

READ MORE: Tentsmuir: Campers assault forest ranger over fire

“The risk of wildfire in these conditions is significantly higher than normal and we need everyone to play their part in minimising the risk.

Forestry Journal: Simon HodgsonSimon Hodgson (Image: PR)

“If you are going for a walk or planning on doing some camping, be sensible and do not take any risks. Do not light campfires, do not smoke and think twice before using a camping stove. And if you really have to use a stove, make sure it is as stable as possible, is well away from any flammable material and is on a level and preferably fire resistant surface.

“We have all seen in the last two weeks how devastating wildfires are and how quickly they can spread. We all need to be vigilant and be aware that all it takes is one glowing ember land in the wrong place.”