Smoke from the Dovestone moorland fire smothered parts of Greater Manchester on Sunday, July 12, as the blaze continued for a second day. The smell of burning was reported as far south as Sale, Stockport, and Levenshulme, and smoke masked parts of Manchester city centre.
Fire Breaks Out at Dovestone Reservoir
Emergency services were called to the Saddleworth beauty spot at around 8.45pm on Saturday, July 11, following reports of a wildfire. Crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) remained at the scene on Sunday, with strict 'avoid area' warnings in place as hot temperatures persisted.
It is feared the fire may have been started by the careless use of fireworks. Residents told the Manchester Evening News they heard 'loud bangs' before the fire took hold. Video footage shared online appears to show fireworks being let off on the moors on Saturday evening. One video shows a young woman holding a rocket launcher as a firework explodes, sparking a blaze in dry grass before bystanders run over.
Youths Gather in Tribute After Teen's Death
Youths had gathered at the reservoir in tribute to Karl Holland, 18, who tragically died after getting into difficulties in the water on Friday, June 10. His body was recovered from the scene later. The Manchester Evening News understands GMFRS and Greater Manchester Police are aware of the videos and they will form part of investigations into the fire's cause.
Throughout Sunday, smoke billowed for miles, smothering parts of the region. Members of the public were advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to the smoke. GMFRS said the weather posed 'challenging conditions', with smoke and haze blown across the region.
Impact on Communities and Environment
Smoke was reported in Sale, Manchester city centre, Levenshulme, Wythenshawe, and as far as Reddish. Dukinfield and Stalybridge Councillor Jake Frater said: "This fire has been burning for hours, destroying wildlife and habitats, and putting people at risk. It's also affecting an area where many families have planted memorial trees to remember loved ones. Those places mean so much to people, and seeing them damaged is heartbreaking."
He added: "If your child was involved, or if you know who was, please take the time to talk to them about the real dangers and consequences of their actions. What may seem like a bit of fun can quickly become devastating." Frater noted that smoke affects elderly residents, people with breathing conditions, and children with asthma, while firefighters are diverted from other emergencies and wildlife is killed or displaced.
One city centre resident said it 'absolutely stinks', sharing pictures of smoke over Piccadilly. Another resident in Sale reported the smell, and social media was awash with posts from Levenshulme, Stockport, Eccles, Stretford, and Trafford.
Firefighting Efforts Continue
Multiple road closures were in place, and United Utilities helicopters were drafted in to drop water over the blazing site. A large area of moorland near the reservoir was scorched. GMFRS said that due to winds, smoke had travelled 'significant distances' and issued another plea to avoid disposable barbecues, campfires, or fireworks.
A GMFRS spokesperson said: "At just before 8.45pm on Saturday 11 July, fire crews were called to reports of a fire in open moorland near Dovestones Reservoir, Greenfield. Firefighters remain in attendance this evening (Sunday 12 July) and continue to work alongside partner agencies to contain the fire and prevent further spread."
"Throughout the day, additional fire engines, specialist wildfire units, burns teams, command support resources and drone capability have been brought in to support the response. Crews are working across a number of sectors to tackle active fire fronts, create fire breaks and prevent the spread of the fire into surrounding moorland and woodland areas."
"United Utilities remains on scene supporting the multi-agency response, with a range of tactical options being considered to support firefighting efforts in difficult terrain. Due to strong winds, smoke from the fire may travel significant distances and people across Greater Manchester may notice a smell of burning or haze in the air. Residents affected by smoke are advised to keep windows and doors closed where possible."
Firefighters will remain at the scene overnight. The public is asked to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work safely. GMFRS continues to urge people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires, or set off fireworks on or near moorland, as even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire in dry conditions.
