FIRE chiefs are appealing for help in tackling the escalating problem of blazes in the Eston Hills.

The call comes at the start of spring when the hills, near Middlesbrough, become a popular attraction.

The number of hill fires has risen dramatically since 2001 when the force dealt with 46, by 2002 there were 91 fires and last year the number rose to 117.

Plain clothes police officers, countryside warden patrols and information sharing with landowners have all been used to try to combat the problem.

Tony Churchill, station manager at Grangetown, said: "Hill fires are a growing concern. When firefighters are called to deal with them our response time to other incidents may be delayed and this could result in the loss of life.

"These fires are ruining our heritage and areas of natural beauty, and wildlife is disrupted.

"The livelihood of local landowners is affected and every time we are called upon to attend a fire-related incident on these hills it costs council tax payers at least £250. One incident last year equated to a cost of approximately £5,000.

"We would appeal to members of the public to be careful when they are on the hills and urge people not to start a fire under any circumstances. Everyone can play their part in keeping the hills safe."

A poster campaign was launched by the brigade's Arson Task Force earlier this month.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01642) 452345 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.