There is considerable concern that local supermarkets are still selling disposable barbecues, despite the clear evidence that recently they have been responsible for a number of fires in Dorset, some quite devastating.

As we are currently experiencing a dry spell, and with the countryside beginning to look quite parched in some areas, despite it only being late June, coupled with quite high winds, the dangers are obvious.

I am aware that complaints have been registered with local stores, but it appears only Waitrose and Aldi nationally have said they will no longer be stocking them. I would therefore invite the managers of local stores to state their position, and encourage the public to register their concern if they encounter them for sale.

It is not a question of preventing barbecues during good weather, but there is a place for them where they can be properly supervised, and closed down safely, not in the countryside where accidentally or negligently they can easily get out of hand.

Chris Lousley

Netherbury