The muirburn code has been updated with information relating to regulation, planning, burning and cutting, as well as specific guidance on grazing management.

Ian Wilson, Highland manager for NFU Scotland, reminded farmers and crofters of the importance of following the rules when cutting and burning heather and vegetation: “We need to ensure that muirburn is done in a well-thought-through manner, so as to avoid fires getting out of control and possibly becoming large-scale wildfires,” said Wilson.