Flares spark blaze at tip

POLICE have issued a warning over the dangers of dumping distress flares after a set of unwanted devices started a blaze at a Lothian landfill site.

Three were dumped among household waste in the Gilmerton area on Wednesday afternoon and taken to the landfill in Dunbar, East Lothian. They sparked a fire in the refuse, but no-one was injured and the blaze was quickly extinguished.

Police said that since legislation surrounding their disposal changed on April 1, the flares have been found dumped in the sea and in wheelie bins.

Officers said anyone wanting to dispose of flares should contact the supplier to arrange a safe uplift.