POLICE have issued a warning about the dangers of starting fires and wasting emergency service resources after a tree was "set on fire" in Springfield Park.

Fire crews were called to the Kidderminster park on Saturday night (July 11) after receiving reports of a fallen tree on fire.

A Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Crews were called out at 21.57pm to a large felled tree in Springfield Park which was well alight.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The tree was found 'well alight' by fire service crewsThe tree was found 'well alight' by fire service crews

"An off road vehicle was required because of limited access. Axes, thermal image camera, a high pressure lance and small tools were used.

"The area was reinspected at 04.30am."

The fire prompted a warning from Broadwaters Safer Neighbourhood Team over the dangers of starting fires and wasting valuable emergency service resources.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Emergency services at the scene of the fire in Springfield Park in KidderminsterEmergency services at the scene of the fire in Springfield Park in Kidderminster

They also shared photographs of the blaze, showing fire services at the scene.

In a post on social media, Wyre Forest Police said: "A fallen tree at Springfield Park has been set on fire, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service are working hard to extinguish it.

"Starting fires like this is not only dangerous but valuable resources are out of action for hours when they might be needed elsewhere or even your home."