Wombles Unite to Tackle Fire Risk in Havering’s Open Spaces

6th August 20266th August 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Havering, Havering Parks, LFB, Litter, Wombles min read

Volunteers from litter-picking groups across Havering joined forces at Ingrebourne Hill Country Park on Wednesday 5 August to highlight the dangers of littering during the summer months and support efforts to reduce the risk of grass fires.

The event brought together members of the Beam Park and Rainham & Wennington Wombles alongside Romford Town Wombles, responding to advice from London Fire Brigade for visitors to parks and open spaces to take their litter home and help prevent accidental fires.

During just one hour of litter-picking, volunteers collected several bags of rubbish and reported two incidents of fly-tipping.

Sue Watson, who organises the Beam Park and Rainham & Wennington Wombles groups, said that people often underestimate the role litter can play in starting fires.

“People think it’s about making sure your cigarette is fully out, or not using disposable barbecues, but even a small piece of glass from a bottle, or something containing a battery such as a vape, can start a blaze that destroys acres of grassland, harms wildlife, puts firefighters at risk and could potentially prevent them from carrying out life-saving work elsewhere.

“Every item of litter removed from our open spaces is one less potential fire hazard.”

Rob Enifer, representing Romford Town Wombles, urged residents to think carefully about the impact of littering.

“It is important for people not to drop litter. Find a bin or, if necessary, take it home. By doing this we can all reduce the risk of fire and help look after the places where we live.”

With several fires affecting Havering’s parks and grasslands this summer, volunteers said the message was simple: preventing fires is a responsibility shared by everyone who uses the borough’s green spaces.

Concluding the event, Sue Watson said:

“The Womble groups are doing their bit to reduce fire risk and support our marvellous London Fire Brigade. But preventing fires in our open spaces is everybody’s responsibility, from taking litter home to making sure children understand the dangers of starting fires through misguided mischief.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously in our parks or believe a fire may have been started deliberately, call 999 immediately.”

The Wombles hope the event will encourage more residents to take pride in their local environment and play their part in keeping Havering’s parks, nature reserves and open spaces safe throughout the summer.