Firefighters Struggle to Contain Two Moorland Blazes
Fire chiefs have revealed that they are still struggling to contain two moorland blazes as their operation is poised to enter an eighth day. Two major incidents have been declared at Dovestone, in Greenfield in Oldham, and at Tintwistle Moor near Glossop. Dozens of firefighters remain at both scenes. In Tintwistle, above Woodhead Road in Glossop, a blaze first broke out nearly three weeks ago. It has spread over the moorland and burned an area the size of at least 350 football pitches.
Police Make Two More Arson Arrests
As police confirmed two more arrests over alleged arson, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service incident commander Paul Fernhead paid tribute to the firefighters and officers working on the scene. He said he is 'really, really proud' of those who have been 'working tirelessly' over the past week. In an update on July 17, Fernhead stated: 'We are dealing with two fires, we have been working in the Dovestones area for around seven days, and in the Swineshaw area for around three days. The fire at Dovestones is still progressing slowly but we are containing the fire currently, and working with partners to resolve this incident and slow its spread.'
Firefighters Praised for Tireless Efforts
Fernhead added: 'Our staff have been amazing, the commitment they have shown. They are working tirelessly hard to ensure that we slow the spread and stop the progress. I am really really proud of the work they have put in. They are great characters keeping positive and turning up to resolve this.' It comes as police have made two more arrests in relation to the Dovestone moorland fire. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that officers arrested a 19-year-old woman on suspicion of arson on July 16. She has been bailed pending further police enquiries. On July 17, they arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson. He remains in custody for questioning.
Previous Arson Charge and Police Appeal
Shania Care-Slede, of Market Street, Hyde, aged 20, has already been charged with arson and appeared in court on Tuesday. Detective Inspector Andrew Day of Oldham division said: 'This investigation has been progressing at pace, we are nearly a week on and the fire at Dovestones is still ongoing, and it has had devastating effects on the Reservoir. I mentioned in my last update that we are aware of the social media posts circulating regarding this incident, it is a live police investigation, and I would like to stress the point again, to stop sharing and speculating regarding this and if you do have information, please report it to ourselves. As this incident continues, officers would like to thank all emergency service partners for their support and dedication. In particular, our colleagues at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, whose firefighters have spent countless hours tackling the fire in demanding conditions.'
