Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has issued an urgent plea after members of the public were spotted lighting barbecues on moorland while crews continue to battle a major blaze near Dovestone Reservoir. The fire, which started on July 11, has been burning for over a week, and a separate fire at Swineshaw is also ongoing.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
A multi-agency operation involving specialist national resilience teams from Derbyshire, South Wales, Lancashire, and Hereford & Worcester fire services is underway. Helicopter support is conducting water drops and aerial surveys, while crews create additional firebreaks to limit the spread. The fire has produced large plumes of smoke visible across Greater Manchester.
Public Ignoring Safety Warnings
Despite the severity of the situation, GMFRS reported that people were seen lighting BBQs in the affected area over the weekend. A spokesperson stated: "People must stay away from affected moorland areas and must not light BBQs, campfires or any other open flames. These incidents place significant pressure on emergency services." They added that every preventable fire risks diverting resources from the ongoing response and endangering lives and the environment.
Arrests and Charges
Greater Manchester Police arrested a 19-year-old woman and a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson earlier this week; both have been released on bail. Separately, Shania Care-Slede, 20, of Market Street, Hyde, has been charged with arson in connection with the Dovestone fire and appeared in court on July 14.
Third Major Fire at Tintwistle
A third major wildfire at Tintwistle, near Glossop, has been burning for approximately three weeks and has scorched an area equivalent to at least 350 football pitches. Helicopter support is also being used there. The fires have prompted a coordinated response involving RSPB, National Trust, Eastern Moors Partnership, United Utilities, local authorities, and landowners.
