Firefighters have been battling gorse fires across Cornwall this afternoon - just hours after a plea to not start them on purpose.

There have been fires in Mullion, Penzance, St Ives and Launceston in the last few hours.

It has prompted Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service to say: "Please help us in these challenging times by #StayingHomeStayingSafe."

Notice of the blazes came just hours after the first service issued a public plea to avoid wildfires, saying: "With the dry weather forecast for the next week or so coinciding with the coronavirus lockdown we are asking everyone to be careful, considerate and vigilant to avoid wildfires and protect our beautiful countryside."

It has now had to go further, by appealing to those responsible for land, adding: "We're asking all land managers to not undertake prescribed or controlled burns unless it is absolutely necessary, to help minimise wildfires.

"Help us help you as we deal with the additional pressures and challenges with the current COVID-19 pandemic."

Fire crews spent last night at the scene of gorse fire in West Cornwall, after firefighters were first called to Newmill, north of Penzance, at around 2.50pm yesterday.

Four fire appliances, from Penzance, St Just, St Ives and Hayle, were sent and crews remained on the scene through the night to monitor the situation.

Also yesterday, St Keverne Fire Station were called out just after 4.40pm to a fire in the open, which turned out to be a controlled burning.