A GROUP of artists has launched an online exhibition to support efforts being made to restore Wareham Forest following a devastating blaze at the site - with some even using charcoal from the fire-ravaged site to draw with.

Broadstone Art Society has launched the Forest Fire Exhibition to raise awareness of the vulnerability of forest habitats.

Artists have created pictures which aim to capture the ferocity of the fire, the efforts of firefighters tackling the blaze, and the positivity of new growth starting to appear as nature slowly returns to the area.

The wildfire at Wareham Forest, which is believed to have been started by disposable barbecues, destroyed an area of heath and woodland equivalent to the size of 115 football pitches. Roughly 100 firefighters and 30 fire engines were sent to tackle the flames which burnt for more than two weeks.

Broadstone Art Society has launched the exhibition in support of an appeal led by Forestry England, a government agency responsible for managing and promoting the nation's forests.

The appeal is for donations which will be used to restore the habitats that were lost in the fire and to protect the forest against future fires. Donations will support the planting of thousands of new trees to replace those burnt in the fire, recreating suitable breeding sites for rare reptiles and the installation of bat boxes.

Simon Merry, from Broadstone Art Society, said: "Wareham is a special place for local people and nature alike. Our group, like so many others in the local and wider community, was devastated to watch as fire destroyed so much of this landscape.

"We wanted to do something creatively in response and this has grown into an exhibition that might help raise awareness and support its restoration.

"We hope the images show the terrible force of the fire but also how nature has already started to return and reclaim its lost ground.

"We hope those viewing the works will find them engaging and be encouraged to support the Wareham Forest fundraising appeal."

To donate to the Wareham Forest appeal, visit https://www.forestryengland.uk/help-wareham-forest

To view the online Forest Fire Exhibition, visit www.broadstoneartsociety.com