The Royal Parks are reminding millions of visitors that barbecues are banned in their parkland.

During the last hot summer of 2003 disposable barbecues burnt down a 500 year old oak tree in Richmond Park and caused scores of small fires in tinder dry grassland across the capital. Park managers fear that this summer's heat wave could lead to similar problems

"Almost all our Parks have large areas of uncut grass because it's a fantastic ecological resource. In the summer sun it becomes tinder dry and just one spark from a nearby barbecue could lead to a serious blaze. The worst case scenario is that hundreds of acres could go up in smoke," said Colin Buttery, Director of Parks.

The knots and holes in ancient trees are sometimes used by thoughtless people as rubbish bins. If a smouldering disposable barbecue is dropped in then the fire can catch hold, hidden from view until it is too late. Ancient trees, such as the English oak, are home to hundreds of rare and endangered birds, insects and plants, which will either be killed or left homeless.

In addition to the risk of starting fires, disposable barbecues in mown areas leave ugly burnt patches where grass will not regrow during the summer months.

Barbecues and open fires are banned by Royal Parks' regulations and people could face fines for using them.

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