THE TRUST which manages the Malvern Hills and Commons has urged visitors to take care as the summer heatwave continues.
With the hot weather forecast throughout this week, the Malvern Hills Trust are reminding the public of the dangers of swimming in Gullet Quarry and using BBQs on the hills and commons.
At the weekend there were reports of visitors to the hills undertaking both activities, putting themselves and others at risk.
Duncan Bridges, chief executive of the Malvern Hills Trust, said: “We thank the vast majority of visitors for being responsible and taking care in this hot, dry weather.
“However, despite advice and signage on the Hills and Commons, people are taking serious risks.”
MHT have stressed to visitors no swimming or bathing at Gullet Quarry is allowed following the tragic deaths of two young men in 2013.
To prevent further deaths at the Quarry, fencing and signage has been erected to warn people of the dangers of the water.
The MHT’s warden, police and fire service have all been in attendance in the last two months to raise awareness of the danger.
Earlier this summer a disposable BBQ was the likely cause of a fire in West of England Quarry.
BBQs are not permitted on the hills and commons at any time due to the risk they pose for potentially starting wildfires.
Disposable BBQs are particularly problematic as they can be windblown, and, if placed directly on the ground, cause damage to the important grassland vegetation underneath.
MHT chiefs are also asking visitors to properly extinguish cigarettes and not to release or light any Chinese or sky lanterns.
Wardens will continue to patrolling the hills and commons seven days a week providing information and advice for visitors.
