This important message reminds people to use BBQs responsibly and always take rubbish home afterwards. Over 100 letters have been sent to shops by the community campaign Litter Free Dorset (hosted by Dorset Council) to seek support and spread the message.

On average, Dorset is subject to over 100 heathland wildfires a year, a high proportion of these can be attributed to a heathland barbecue gone wrong. This summer, 550 acres (550 football pitches) of Wareham Forest was destroyed due to an abandoned disposable BBQ. Litter Free Dorset has been raising awareness that it is illegal to barbecue on heathland and instead wishes to promote the use of alternative, safe barbecuing destinations.

All businesses that sell or promote the use of disposable BBQs are being asked to get behind the campaign.

“A huge thank you goes to the businesses that have supported the campaign so far as well as those who have stopped selling BBQs altogether. It’s vital we promote safe BBQ use to customers to reduce the impacts of littering therefore we need all shops and supermarkets to help,” said Sophie Colley from Litter Free Dorset.

How can businesses help?

Visit Litter Free Dorset’s website and print off a poster to place by BBQs, tills or shop windows. You can also download it.