Around 95 firefighters are tackling blazes in the Mourne Mountains near Newcastle and Hilltown, with the public asked to avoid affected areas as operations continue into the week amid a wildfire weather warning.

A Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) spokesperson said: "NIFRS is continuing to tackle wildfires in the Ballagh Road, Newcastle, and Sandbank Road, Hilltown, areas of the Mourne Mountains with approximately 95 Firefighters in attendance at both incidents. Firefighting operations are expected to continue across the week and so we are reiterating our appeal for the public to avoid these areas.

"Across the weekend, Firefighters also responded to a number of other smaller wildfires in Belfast, Armagh, Lurgan and Rathfriland. "As the weather warning for wildfires remains in place, NIFRS is reminding the public to stay vigilant to the risk of fire in the countryside. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately."

NIFRS has also reiterated countryside fire safety guidance:

- Avoid lighting open fires outdoors; they can quickly get out of control.

- Fully extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials, and never discard them on the ground or from vehicle windows.

- Use barbecues only in suitable, safe areas and never leave them unattended.

- Make sure barbecues are completely out and cold before disposing of the contents.

- Do not leave bottles or glass in grassland or woodland; take them home or place them in a bin.

- Park considerately so emergency vehicles can access the area.

- Keep lighters, matches and open flames away from children.

- Do not attempt to tackle a fire that cannot be put out with a bucket of water—leave immediately.

- If you spot a fire in the countryside, call 999 and ask for NIFRS.

- If you witness someone starting fires, report it to the PSNI.