Rural fires can cause extensive damage to plants and wildlife

There are up to 600 fires a year in the gorse and grasslands of Devon and Cornwall.

Up to half are believed to be started deliberately as acts of vandalism.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary's Arson Task Force said its campaign would stress that fires which start in open countryside are as serious as those in built-up areas.

Rural fires can cause extensive damage to plants and wildlife, and also endanger property and people if they spread.

Police are encouraging people with information to come forward.

They are now also promoting the use of the Crimestoppers phone number to tackle the problem.