FIRE chiefs have issued a warning to people planning garden bonfires after a member of the public was badly burned while trying to light one with petrol in North Yorkshire.

A spokesman said the part-time gardener from Normanby, near Kirkbymoorside, received burns to his face, neck and forearms.

The fire service is reminding people of some bonfire and barbecue safety do’s and don’ts.

He said: “Never use petrol to light a bonfire or barbecue, ensure that your barbecue is fully extinguished and cold before disposing of the contents, keep young children and ball games away from bonfires and barbeques, and keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of emergencies,” he said, adding that people should avoid using open fires in the countryside