Last year Dorset Police introduced buggies to patrol the heath

Much of the Poole Heathlands in Dorset is specified as an area of special scientific interest and home to many rare bird, lizard and mammal species.

Heath fires are a regular summer occurrence, many of them deliberately started by gangs of youths.

Dorset Police will increase the number of officers on the heath and gather intelligence to make arrests.

Wildlife Officer for Dorset Police, John Snellin, said: "Many of the areas being targeted are 'Sites of Special Scientific Interest' and are very vulnerable to the destructive force of fires and other misuse."

"The use of mopeds and scramblers also cause problems to the heathland, whilst being noisy, they also cause extensive damage.

"I would like to urge people to be extra vigilant over the coming months in helping the police prevent fire and anti-social behaviour."