A dramatic video has revealed the scale of the Dovestone moor fire as it continues to rage, sending smoke billowing over the region and blanketing Manchester. Emergency services remain on the scene at the reservoir after the huge moor fire broke out on Saturday, July 11.
Fireworks suspected as cause of blaze
Crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the Saddleworth beauty spot at around 8.45pm following reports of a wildfire. According to eyewitnesses spoken to by the Manchester Evening News, residents reported hearing 'loud bangs' before the fire took hold. Other video footage shared widely online appears to show fireworks being let off in the vicinity on Saturday. One video shows a young woman holding a rocket launcher as a firework explodes on the moors. A firework then appears to spark a blaze in dry grasses, before a group of bystanders run over to the smoking section of moorland.
Tribute gathering linked to tragedy
It is understood youths gathered in tribute to a teenager who tragically lost his life in the reservoir on Friday night, June 10. Karl Holland, 18, died after getting into difficulties in the water, with his body recovered from the scene later.
Smoke spreads across region
Throughout Sunday, smoke could be seen billowing into the sky for several miles and smothering parts of the region. Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to the amount of smoke from the ongoing blaze. New footage shared with the Manchester Evening News shows the scale of the blaze from a viewpoint at Werneth Low, on the border of Tameside and Stockport. Large areas of moorland ablaze created plumes of smoke seen blowing and covering the area. There have also been reports of smoke as far as White City retail park in Stretford, and residents in Trafford and Eccles reported smelling smoke.
Fire crews remain on scene
It is thought the blaze is still raging, with fire crews struggling to bring it under control. Emergency services will remain in attendance overnight and into Monday, July 13, it has now been confirmed. In their latest statement, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: 'Firefighters remain at the scene of a moorland fire near Dovestones Reservoir and continue to work with partner agencies to contain the fire and prevent further spread. Due to high winds, smoke from the fire may travel significant distances. Residents and visitors in surrounding areas are advised to keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke. The fire is not currently impacting the memorial tree plantation. Please continue to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work safely. Thank you for your cooperation.'
