Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue has issued a warning to farmers ahead of this year's harvest season.

Farm fires can spread quickly when the ground is dry and can cause devastating losses for farm owners.

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said: "As we move into harvest season, we are urging farmers to follow our top tips to prevent their machinery catching alight - all too often, we have seen acres of crops lost to fire, despite the hard work of our crews.

The tips from the fire service are:

Regularly clean out dust and chaff from hot spots in combines and balers.

Always stop to investigate hot-running engines or bearings.

Keep mobile phones on hand - not left in a tractor or truck cab.

Make sure there is a readily accessible fire extinguisher on the combine - and that it is regularly maintained.