BORDERERS have been warned of a “very high” risk of wildfire in southern Scotland across the bank holiday weekend.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) issued the alert which is in place from today (May 26) through to Monday.

A spokesperson said that a build-up of dead grass and heather coupled with increased temperatures posed a “heightened risk of fire”.

People who live, work or visit rural areas are being urged to exercise caution over the next few days.

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SFRS group commander Niall MacLennan said: "Numerous wildfires across Scotland this spring – including a wildfire at Kinlochmoidart which spanned the course of three days – have shown how real the danger of fire is in the countryside and how damaging it can be to the environment, wildlife and nearby communities.

"With rising temperatures this weekend and further dry conditions into next week, wildfires could burn and spread with very high intensity in high-risk areas.

"Therefore, it is crucial that people act responsibly when enjoying the outdoors and please think twice before using anything involving a naked flame."

The ‘very high’ warning – released in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum – covers east, central and southern Scotland.