The Met Office's Fire Severity Index (FSI) said parts of southern England were most at risk from blazes including around Chichester and Bognor Regis in West Sussex.

An 'exceptional' wildfire warning has been issued for parts of the country as the latest heatwave brings soaring temperatures, health alerts and a series of hosepipe bans.

Hot dry weather in the UK ‘significantly increase wildfire risk’ warns National Fire Chiefs Council