TREES are being felled to create fire breaks in a bid to stop the spread of wildfires in Swinley Forest.

More than 100 firefighters and about 15 fire engines are tackling four blazes affecting 200 hectares - half the area affected yesterday, when there were 150 firefighters tackling the blazes at their peak.

However, the roads are likely to be shut for at least 24-28 hours and on-lookers have been asked again not to try to go into the woods because of the risk to them and firefighters if the wind changes direction.

Colin Dudley, vice-chairman of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority and a Bracknell Forest borough councillor, said: "We are asking the public to please stay away. It's causing additional problems having to manage onlookers." Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, together with firefighters from neighbouring forces, the Environment Agency and the Forestry Commission are felling trees and clearing land to try to halt the flames.

A spokesman for the Forestry Commission said the forests had been designed to have natural breaks in but further clearing was being carried out.

High-powered jets are also being used to try to force the fires back.

Mr Dudley said the challenge is more difficult because of the peat soil, which allows fire to burn below the ground and then flare up in different areas.