DORSET has a large number of attractions, not least its stunning scenery. Visitors flock to our county for the excellent views. And they’re not just coastal.

Our countryside areas – particularly our precious heaths – are much revered. Which is why we must do all we can to protect them. In the first hot weekend of the year, there’s a heath fire in Poole which threatens nearby homes.

Thanks to vigilant members of the public and quick-thinking firefighters what could have been a very serious incident was dealt with swiftly and expertly. At the moment such areas are tinder-dry and any spark could ignite them. We all have a duty to make sure we take extra care when we are on heathland.

So while many of us will be hoping the dry spell stays with us a little while longer, there will be some hoping for the occasional downpour just to give the heathland the respite it deserves.