Wood fires warning

The Fuel Aware campaign, supported by local Rotherham retailers, urges would-be wood-burners to ensure they buy approved equipment.

Growing numbers of homeowners in Rotherham are installing wood-burners, multi-fuel stoves and open fires and using solid fuels to heat their homes but Rotherham is a smoke control area.

As part of National Climate Week, Fuel Aware campaigners have warned that if residents want to burn wood in Rotherham they must use a multi-fuel stove or wood-burner approved by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

It is illegal to burn wood on an open fire and the offence carries a £1,000 maximum fine.

Robert Beavers, of Wentworth-based Cottage Fires, said: “We’re supporting Fuel Aware as a matter of professional practice.

“We make sure customers are aware of the environmental effects of solid fuel burning every time someone steps into our showroom.

“Fuel Aware helps us do this.”

Figures from the Rotherham Borough Council show Rotherham has the lowest levels of complaints against domestic solid fuel burning in South Yorkshire. The areas of Kimberworth, Rawmarsh and Herringthorpe are the lowest in the region.

The highest levels of complaints in Rotherham are reported in Mexborough and Bramley.

More information can be found at www.care4air.org/fuelaware.