AYRSHIRE'S top fire chief has made a stern plea to those responsible for a spate of recent fire-raising incidents in Irvine.

Over the past few weeks, blazes have been set on a number of occasion at Irvine Moor.

The area has been the target of firebugs in the past, with the area commander for East, South and North Ayrshire Ian McMeekin warning against similar reckless acts as recently as April last year.

Despite these previous pleas, residents living near the popular beauty spot say that they are becoming concerned for their safety once again.

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One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, commented: "We have a view across the moor so we can see fires being set one after the other.  There was one day last week we phoned the fire service four times.

"It's a very regular occurrence and is really concerning for the safety of people using the moor,  houses nearby and the wildlife that call the moor home.

"Those responsible don't seem to put much thought into the consequences of all the damage they are doing and also the risk they are taking for their own safety.

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"It must also be hugely frustrating for the fire service being called out to the same area repeatedly."

The resident continued: "Myself and my neighbours would really like to see more action taken by the local police to try and curb this behaviour.

"Just because it is something that happens every year, doesn't make it okay."

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Area commander Ian McMeekin warned those responsible of the potentially "serious consequences" of their actions.

He said: “We are aware of the recent spate of grass fires on the moorland in Irvine, North Ayrshire.

“Dry and sunny spells of weather over the weekend increased the risk of grass fires as the ground becomes drier during warmer weather.

“When people act carelessly, these incidents are a needless drain on emergency service resources. It can have devastating consequences for nearby properties and local wildlife.

“We continue to work with Police Scotland and North Ayrshire Council to prevent these fires and are appealing to young people to consider the serious consequences of deliberate fire setting.

“Our firefighters work extremely hard to engage with the public to promote safety. We would encourage parents, carers and teachers to help by ensuring children and young people know the risks and consequences of deliberate fire setting.”

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Police Scotland have been approached for comment.