A FIRE at a popular beach may have been started by someone tipping hot fire coals into the dunes.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was called out to Gullane Bents yesterday (Monday) at about 1.45pm.

East Lothian Council Countryside Rangers highlighted the incident on social media and advised people of the best way to dispose of a fire.

A spokesperson for the organisation said: “It is thought that the fire had possibly started after someone tipped hot fire coals into the dunes.

“Campfires and barbecues are very appealing, especially in great weather, but after a prolonged period of dry weather we are at high risk of fire and therefore strongly advise against them.

“When safe to do so, fires should be small, kept under control, on the beach only well away from the dunes and supervised at all times.

“When finished the fire should be extinguished completely with water (not sand) and any trace of the fire removed before leaving.”

East Lothian Courier: Firefighters were called out on Monday afternoon after reports of a fire at a sand dune at Gullane Bents. Picture: East Lothian Council Countryside RangersFirefighters were called out on Monday afternoon after reports of a fire at a sand dune at Gullane Bents. Picture: East Lothian Council Countryside Rangers

Councillor Colin McGinn, the council’s spokesperson for community wellbeing and sport, countryside and leisure, encouraged people to be careful.

He said: “We’ve had some good weather recently and, quite rightly, many people are keen to make the most of this and enjoy the great outdoors.

“There is, unfortunately, a heightened risk of fire in these weather conditions.

“With everyone’s safety in mind, the advice from the Countryside Rangers highlights the importance of respecting and enjoying the local environment safely and responsibly.”