Firefighters remain at Arthur's Seat a day after blaze

Firefighters remain at the scene of a fire on Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh, a day after the blaze broke out.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed that, as of 15:00 on Tuesday, two fire engines remain to dampen down the scene.

Group commander Des Donnelly said there is currently a warning in place to keep windows and doors closed if residents are affected by smoke.

Police Scotland said inquiries into the cause of the fire were ongoing.

Firefighters were mobilised to the fire on Arthur's Seat at 18:50 on Monday.

At its height, three teams and specialist wild fire resources were battling the blaze.

Donelly told BBC Scotland News there were several areas of fire, but there were no reports of casualties.

Firefighters with backpacks and beaters have been working to extinguish a number of origin points of fire in an inaccessible area at the popular beauty spot.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and SFRS said it would work with Police Scotland to determine a likely cause.

Donelly said: "We urge the public to stay away until the area is made safe and the fire has been extinguished.

"In terms of prevention, I want to remind the public about the risks of outdoor fires and how to prevent them.

"Always fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them safely, don't leave litter, take it home with you and dispose of it responsibly."

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) warned that the SFRS was considering a proposal to close Marionville fire station - the nearest to the wildfire.

"The station which serves some of the city's most important cultural buildings and locations, shopping and entertainment centres, as well as densely populated residential areas," said John McKenzie, the regional secretary of the FBU in Scotland.

"Scottish government ministers should look out of their comfortable offices in Holyrood and see for themselves the risk to communities if they continue to fail to provide the financial resources the SFRS needs."

Police Scotland encouraged anyone making the most of the recent spell of hot weather to "stay safe and behave responsibly".

An appeal for information on the cause of the fire has been launched.

Edinburgh area commander, David Dourley, added: "We know many people will be wanting to enjoy the good weather, but we ask they do so responsibly.

"Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions."

The Scottish government has been approached for comment.